PM Modi In Manipur Today, His First Visit Since 2023 Ethnic Violence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Manipur marks his first trip in over two years, unveiling projects worth Rs 8,500 crore amidst heightened security and community reactions following ethnic violence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Manipur on Saturday, marking his first trip to the state in over two years. This visit comes after a period of ethnic violence that has deeply affected the region. During his visit, Modi will unveil projects worth Rs 8,500 crore.

In Churachandpur, where the Kuki community is predominant, Modi will lay foundation stones for development initiatives valued at Rs 7,300 crore. Meanwhile, in Imphal, which has a Meitei majority, he will inaugurate infrastructure projects totalling Rs 1,200 crore. The visit follows criticism from opposition parties regarding his absence during the ethnic conflict between the Kuki and Meitei communities.

Security Measures and Preparations

Security has been heightened in both Imphal and Churachandpur ahead of the Prime Minister's arrival. State and central forces have been deployed extensively around Kangla Fort in Imphal and Peace Ground in Churachandpur. Additionally, bamboo barricades have been erected along routes leading to key venues.

The Manipur government issued an advisory for attendees of the "VVIP programme" at Peace Ground. People are advised not to bring items like keys, pens, water bottles, or sharp objects. Another notice discouraged bringing children under 12 years and sick individuals to the event.

Community Reactions

The Prime Minister's visit has been welcomed by various groups within Manipur. Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba expressed gratitude for Modi's willingness to listen to the people's hardships. "It's a great fortune that Modi will be listening to the hardships faced by the people," he said.

Kuki-Zo organisations have also hailed this visit as "historic." The Kuki-Zo Council noted that it has been nearly four decades since a prime minister last visited their region. They expressed hope that Modi's leadership would help heal wounds and restore dignity.

Political Context

Manipur has been under President's Rule since February following Chief Minister N Biren Singh's resignation. Large billboards announcing Modi's programmes were put up in strategic locations like Keisampat Junction in Imphal ahead of his visit.

A women's group named 'Imagi Meira' urged Modi to ensure safe passage for Meiteis along National Highways. They requested him to direct officials accordingly for their safety during his visit.

The state had previously banned air guns in Churachandpur district as part of preparations for Modi's arrival. Central security teams are conducting continuous inspections at Kangla Fort with disaster management boats patrolling its surrounding moats.

Kuki-Zo groups opposed a planned dance programme meant to welcome Modi as part of a ceremony but still appreciated his presence as significant for their community.

With inputs from PTI