Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Manipur on 13 September. This marks his first trip since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023. Officials confirm he will inaugurate and lay foundation stones for development projects totaling Rs 8,500 crore. The visit aims to address the state’s ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Modi will begin his itinerary at the Peace Ground in Churachandpur. This area has a Kuki community majority. Here, he will lay foundations for projects worth Rs 7,300 crore. This gesture is seen as a significant outreach effort.
The ethnic conflict between Kukis and Meiteis has resulted in over 260 deaths. Approximately 50,000 people have been displaced. The violence has deeply fractured Manipur’s social fabric.
In Imphal, the state capital, Modi will inaugurate infrastructure projects valued at Rs 1,200 crore. Imphal is predominantly inhabited by the Meitei community. This balanced approach signals neutrality from the Centre.
Several key projects are on the agenda. These include a working women’s hostel and the PM-DevINE scheme. A super-speciality healthcare facility for five hill districts is also planned.
The Manipur Infotech Development Project aims to generate youth employment. Eklavya model residential schools will empower tribal youngsters. Foundations for Manipur Bhavans in Kolkata and Delhi may also be laid.
The United Naga Council has suspended its economic blockade on National Highway-2. This key supply route runs through Naga-dominated regions. The protest was over the India-Myanmar Free Movement Regime.
Suspension followed assurances from Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel. The Centre will engage all stakeholders before border fencing plans proceed. This has eased tensions temporarily.
Security has been significantly strengthened across Imphal and Churachandpur. State and central forces are deployed in large numbers. Preparations include inspections and patrols.
Central security teams are continuously inspecting Kangla Fort. Boats from the Disaster Management Force patrol the moats. Bamboo barricades line routes to the Peace Ground.
Manipur’s sole Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba called the visit very fortunate. He noted that no prime minister has visited during such turbulent times. This highlights the visit’s historical significance.
Opposition leaders have expressed criticism. Congress leader Pawan Khera described the visit as too little too late. He mentioned angry residents pulling down hoardings.
TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee acknowledged the duty of the Prime Minister to visit. He stated that people will decide their best interests during future elections. The political reactions reflect deep divisions.
The conflict began over Meitei demands for Scheduled Tribe status. It escalated rapidly due to longstanding grievances. Issues include land rights and political representation.
Modi’s itinerary appears carefully designed for balance. It starts in Churachandpur and ends at Kangla Fort in Imphal. He is expected to meet displaced families and may announce rehabilitation packages.