Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Manipur on Saturday, marking his first tour of the northeastern state since ethnic violence erupted two years ago. His visit carries both symbolic and developmental significance as he plans to address the concerns of both Kukis and Meiteis while inaugurating multiple infrastructure projects worth thousands of crores.
Modi’s First Visit After Violence in Manipur
This will be Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first visit to Manipur since deadly ethnic clashes broke out in May 2023. The conflict between the Kuki and Meitei communities claimed over 260 lives and displaced thousands, leaving scars that still remain visible. Opposition parties have frequently criticized Modi for not visiting the violence-hit state earlier, accusing him of ignoring the humanitarian crisis.
Now, nearly two years after the unrest, the Prime Minister is making his way to the state, signaling an attempt to restore trust, boost morale, and push forward development.
Schedule of Modi’s Visit
According to the state’s Chief Secretary, Modi will arrive in Churachandpur around 12:30 PM after completing his engagements in Mizoram. Churachandpur, one of the worst-hit districts during the violence and predominantly inhabited by Kukis, will be his first stop.
At the Peace Ground in Churachandpur, the Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone for development projects worth ₹7,300 crore. These initiatives are aimed at rebuilding confidence in the affected region, promoting infrastructure growth, and creating new opportunities for employment and stability.
Following this, Modi will travel to Imphal, the capital city and a stronghold of the Meitei community, where he will inaugurate infrastructure projects worth ₹1,200 crore. The dual focus on Churachandpur and Imphal highlights the government’s efforts to balance outreach between the two communities that were at the center of the violence.
Development Projects in Focus
The projects set for inauguration and foundation laying include vital infrastructure works, road connectivity, health facilities, educational institutions, and other development programs. By investing in both Churachandpur and Imphal, the government aims to ensure equitable development and reduce the perceived bias that has often fueled ethnic tensions.
The ₹7,300 crore worth of projects in Churachandpur include housing, public health centers, water supply, and rural development initiatives. Meanwhile, in Imphal, the ₹1,200 crore projects will strengthen urban infrastructure, modernize roads, and improve basic civic facilities.
Preparations Ahead of Modi’s Arrival
Preparations for the Prime Minister’s visit have been in full swing. On Thursday, large hoardings were installed across Churachandpur and Imphal announcing Modi’s upcoming programs at the Peace Ground and the historic Kangla Fort.
The Manipur government has issued strict advisories regarding security arrangements at the venues. People attending the VVIP program at Peace Ground have been asked not to carry items such as keys, pens, water bottles, bags, umbrellas, lighters, matchboxes, or any sharp objects and ammunition. Another advisory recommended that children under 12 years of age and unwell individuals should avoid attending the event due to safety concerns.
Earlier, the state government had also imposed a ban on air guns in Churachandpur district in view of the Prime Minister’s visit. Security forces have intensified deployment across both Imphal and Churachandpur, with multiple checkpoints, frisking, and surveillance systems in place.
Political Context of the Visit
The timing of the Prime Minister’s visit is politically significant. Since February, Manipur has been under President’s Rule following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. The state continues to face a fragile law and order situation, with sporadic reports of unrest.
Modi’s presence in the state is expected to send a strong political message that the central government remains committed to peace, reconciliation, and development in Manipur. His dual engagement with both Kukis and Meiteis is seen as a calculated move to restore balance and trust.
Ethnic Divide and Challenges Ahead
The ethnic clashes between Kukis and Meiteis remain one of the darkest chapters in Manipur’s recent history. Displacement, destroyed homes, and deep mistrust between communities continue to challenge the state’s social fabric.
By announcing massive developmental projects in both communities’ regions, the government hopes to bridge divides and foster unity. However, experts suggest that economic projects alone may not be sufficient unless backed by long-term reconciliation efforts, fair distribution of resources, and active conflict resolution measures.
Opposition’s Criticism
Opposition parties have repeatedly attacked Modi for delaying his visit to Manipur, accusing him of indifference during the peak of the crisis. Leaders from the Congress and other regional outfits argue that a timely intervention could have saved lives and reduced displacement.
Now that the Prime Minister is finally visiting, the opposition will closely watch whether his announcements go beyond symbolism and translate into tangible relief for those affected.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Manipur is more than a political event. It is a test of leadership, empathy, and governance in a state that continues to heal from ethnic conflict. By focusing on both Kukis in Churachandpur and Meiteis in Imphal, Modi aims to strike a balance while unveiling projects worth over ₹8,500 crore.
The visit could become a turning point if it leads to real progress on peace, development, and reconciliation. But the challenge lies in implementing these projects effectively and ensuring they benefit all sections of society without deepening existing divides.
