Between History, Myth, and Politics: A Critical Reassessment of the Meitei–Tangkhul “Brotherhood” Narrative

Abstract

The claim that the Meitei and Tangkhul communities of Manipur are “brothers” sharing a common ancestry has gained traction in recent socio-political discourse. This paper critically examines the historical, linguistic, ethnographic, and mythological evidence surrounding this claim. While acknowledging long-standing interactions and cultural overlaps between the valley-based Meitei and the hill-dwelling Tangkhul Nagas, the study argues that the notion of close kinship is largely rooted in oral traditions and selective reinterpretations, rather than verifiable historical or anthropological evidence. The “brotherhood” narrative is thus best understood as a modern socio-political construct, albeit one drawing upon fragments of older cultural memory.

Article 371C of the Indian Constitution and the Tribal Communities of Manipur

 Constitutional Safeguards, Institutional Practice, and Contemporary Challenges

Abstract

Article 371C of the Indian Constitution was introduced as a special provision to safeguard the political, administrative, and cultural interests of the tribal communities inhabiting the hill areas of Manipur. Enacted in the context of Manipur’s transition to statehood, the provision sought to institutionalise participatory governance through the Hill Areas Committee (HAC) and to assign special responsibility to the Governor for hill administration. Despite its constitutional significance, Article 371C has remained under-implemented and institutionally weakened. This paper examines the historical origins, constitutional intent, institutional mechanisms, and practical limitations of Article 371C, situating it within Manipur’s broader ethnic and governance landscape. It argues that the erosion of Article 371C has contributed to tribal alienation and governance crises, and that strengthening its implementation is essential for democratic legitimacy and ethnic accommodation in Manipur.