PM Modi in Imphal: Firm Resolve to Take Manipur Forward on the Path of Peace, Progress, and Development
By Tajdar H. Zaidi
Imphal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a highly anticipated visit to Manipur, his first in two years since the ethnic violence of 2023 scarred the state, leaving behind deep wounds and unresolved tensions.
The visit was both symbolic and substantive, combining reassurances of peace with the announcement of development projects worth thousands of crores, aimed at rebuilding trust and fostering growth in the violence-hit region.
Speaking in Imphal, the Prime Minister described the clashes between the Meitei community and the Kuki tribes that erupted in May 2023 as “unfortunate” and a grave injustice to both the sacrifices of ancestors and the hopes of future generations.
The violence, which claimed more than 250 lives and displaced around 60,000 people, still casts a shadow, with thousands yet to return to their homes.
Despite this backdrop, Modi’s speech radiated optimism. “Our Imphal is the city of possibilities,” he declared, adding that the 21st century belongs to the North-East. His words emphasized that Manipur, despite its painful challenges, has immense potential to emerge as a hub of peace, cultural pride, and modern development.
The Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for several projects, including a new Civil Secretariat at Mantripukhri, an IT SEZ Building, a new Police Headquarters, and Manipur Bhawans in Delhi and Kolkata.
“These initiatives will not only strengthen the state’s infrastructure but also open avenues of employment for the youth, improve governance, and make daily life easier for the people of Manipur,” he said.
In both Churachandpur—a Kuki-majority district—and Imphal, the stronghold of the Meitei community, Modi engaged directly with displaced families, underlining his government’s commitment to healing divisions and restoring normalcy.
“May the lives of those who are forced to live in camps return to normalcy. For this, our government is continuously working,” he affirmed.
To back words with action, the Prime Minister announced the sanctioning of 7,000 new houses for displaced families and highlighted the recently approved ₹3,000 crore special package for Manipur, of which more than ₹500 crore is earmarked specifically for assisting the displaced.
“Those who have endured the heat of violence should return to normal life as soon as possible. This is our top priority,” he stressed.
The Prime Minister also invoked Manipur’s proud role in India’s freedom struggle, recalling how the Indian National Army (INA) had unfurled the national flag on Manipuri soil.
“We must draw strength from our history. Any violence in Manipur dishonors the sacrifices of our forefathers and undermines the aspirations of our children. The only way forward is peace and development.”
In Churachandpur, addressing a large gathering, Modi made an emotional appeal: “I appeal to all the groups to move on the path of peace, to fulfill your dreams and secure your children’s future. Today, I promise that I stand by your side. The Government of India stands firmly with the people of Manipur.”
By combining compassion for the victims with a roadmap for growth, PM Modi’s visit reinforced his firm resolve: to heal divisions, restore confidence, and place Manipur firmly on the path of peace, progress, and inclusive development.
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