Edited by Elvish Haokip, Kukiland Express Desk
Chandel: May 16, 2026
The Haokip Youth Organisation (HYO) has issued a press release to address what it termed misinformation circulating in public discourse and on social media regarding the clan identity of Mr. Michael Lamjathang Haokip. In its statement, HYO said these misrepresentations have caused confusion within the Kuki community and stated that it found it necessary to place on record the correct position on his clan affiliation to maintain factual accuracy.
In the press release, bearing Ref. No: HYO/Press/05/2026 and dated May 16, 2026, HYO clarified on clan identity that Mr. Michael Lamjathang Haokip belongs to the Haokip clan. The organisation stated that he is not from the Thadou clan and added that any reference identifying him as Thadou is factually incorrect and must be corrected.
On Thadou recognition, HYO urged the public not to misunderstand that Haokip, Kipgen, and Thadou are “sons of Thalhun.” The organisation stated that the 1956 recognition of tribes in Manipur under the name “Thadou” was a mistake. HYO further noted that this classification has not been accepted by other clans of similar dialects within the Kuki community, including Haokip, Kipgen, Guite, Lunkim, Kilong, Haolai, Touthang, Changsan, Lhungdim, Misao, and others. It added that each clan maintains its distinct identity, history, and lineage.
The press release also addressed the issue of non-representation, stating that Mr. Michael Lamjathang Haokip and his self-styled organisations do not represent the Kuki community or the Thadou clan. HYO said the legitimate bodies representing Thadou affairs are Thadou Inpi Manipur (TIM), Thadou Students’ Association (TSA), Thadou Community International (TCI), Thadou Human Rights Advocacy (THRA), and Thadou Youth Union (TYU). The organisation stated that any claim to the contrary by Mr. Michael Lamjathang Haokip or his associates is unauthorised and misleading.
HYO further issued an appeal to media houses, requesting all media houses, journalists, and online platforms not to publish or entertain news items, statements, or press releases related to Mr. Michael Lamjathang Haokip, Mr. James Haokip, and former Chief Minister of Manipur Mr. N. Biren Singh when such content uses the Thadou name in a manner that misrepresents clan identities or creates confusion within the Kuki community.
Concluding the release, HYO said the organisation stands for truth, peace, and mutual respect among all clans. It stated that misrepresentation of clan identities fuels misunderstanding and disharmony. The organisation appealed for responsible reporting and urged the public to verify facts before sharing. The statement was issued by Thang John Tellang, General Secretary, Haokip Youth Organisation (HYO).
