Churachandpur/Imphal, — In a landmark visit to violence-hit Manipur, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with victims of the ethnic unrest that has gripped the northeastern state since May 2023. This marks his first trip to the region since clashes between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities left over 260 dead and displaced more than 60,000 people.
Despite heavy rain and security challenges, PM Modi traveled 65 km from Imphal airport to Churachandpur, one of the worst-affected districts, where he interacted with internally displaced persons (IDPs), including elderly citizens and children housed in relief camps at Peace Ground.
A Message of Reconciliation
Addressing a public gathering, Modi emphasized the importance of trust, unity, and inclusive development. “Peace is not merely the absence of violence—it is the presence of reconciliation,” he said, echoing the sentiments of Chief Secretary Dr. Puneet Kumar Goel, who described Manipur as a “central pillar of India’s Act East policy and a proud guardian of India’s diversity”.
The Prime Minister’s itinerary included a visit to Kangla Fort in Imphal, a cultural symbol of the Meitei community, where he met valley-based displaced families and inaugurated several development projects.
Development Push
Modi laid foundation stones for infrastructure projects worth ₹1,300 crore and inaugurated completed works valued at ₹1,200 crore. These include roads, IT parks, and housing schemes aimed at rebuilding lives and restoring economic stability.
Cultural Welcome
In a poignant moment, Manipur’s tribal communities performed traditional dances in Churachandpur to welcome the Prime Minister, signaling a desire for healing and unity.
Political Undercurrents
While the visit was widely welcomed, opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi criticized its timing, calling it “too late” and accusing the government of neglecting the region during its most vulnerable phase.
What’s Next?
The Prime Minister’s visit is part of a broader three-day tour across Mizoram, Assam, West Bengal, and Bihar, where he is expected to launch development projects worth over ₹71,000 crore. In Manipur, his presence has reignited hope among weary locals, many of whom see this as a turning point for peace and progress.
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