Mokokchung, 21 October (MTNews): In response to Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh’s public declaration of Tangkhul and Meitei communities being “brothers,” the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has said that it does not recognize the authority of N Biren Singh to define the blood relations of the Tangkhul tribe, whether in his capacity as the head of the state government or as an individual.
It may be recalled that during Singh’s visit to Ukhrul Headquarters on 18 October 2023, Singh had remarked about the blood relation between Tangkhul and Meitei communities in the State. The TNL stressed that such a declaration holds no significance for their community. The TNL acknowledged that there may be historical and genealogical connections between certain families or clans of the Tangkhul and Meitei communities. “However, trying to blanket the entire Tangkhul community under such stray historical and genealogical definition is bereft of any sound logic,” it stated.
The TNL asserted that TNL and the Tangkhul community are competent enough to know its own history and firmly believe in its destiny as an integral part of the Naga nation. It expressed that they do not wish their land to become a summer, second, or any other Capital of Manipur.
The TNL said they feel constrained to issue this statement in order to clear the air in the backdrop of widespread public outrage and confusion regarding the visit of N Biren Singh, Chief Minister of Manipur, to Ukhrul and related activities thereof.
Further, TNL clarified that the apex Tangkhul body is in no way connected to the State Cabinet meeting held in Ukhrul during the CM’s visit. It also said it is “not a party” to the joint memorandum submitted by certain Tangkhul CSOs.
“TNL welcomes and appreciates every move by the state government regarding development works in the district. At the same time, it must be understood that the State government is merely doing its mandated duty and not bestowing any extraordinary largesse to us,” it added.