Manipur, India– Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made a significant visit to the troubled Manipur state, marking his first trip since ethnic clashes broke out in May 2023, resulting in at least 260 deaths and displacing tens of thousands of people.
The violence erupted between the mainly Hindu Meitei majority and the largely Christian Kuki community, with tensions rooted in competition for land and government jobs.
During his visit, Modi addressed a gathering of thousands in Churachandpur, a Kuki-dominated town, assuring them of the government’s support.
“In order to bring life back on track in Manipur, the government of India is making all possible efforts,” Modi said.
“I promise you today that I’m with you. The government of India is with the people of Manipur,” he added, while appealing “to all groups to take the path of peace for realising their dreams”.
Modi’s visit to Manipur is part of a three-day tour that also includes Assam and Bihar. Bihar is a key electoral battleground ahead of polls slated for October or November, and Modi was set to unveil investments worth $8 billion, a package that includes agricultural projects, rail links, road upgrades, and an airport terminal.
The visit, which included stops in Churachandpur and Imphal, aimed to showcase the government’s commitment to peace and development in the region.
During his visit, Modi laid the foundation stones for 14 development projects worth over ₹7,300 crore and inaugurated projects worth ₹1,200 crore in Imphal.
The Prime Minister’s visit is seen as a symbolic attempt to reach out to both communities at the heart of the conflict.
Modi met with internally displaced persons (IDPs) at the Peace Ground in Churachandpur, listening to their concerns and reassuring them of the Centre’s commitment to restoring peace and normalcy in the state.
He emphasized the importance of peace and unity, stating that “any form of violence in Manipur is unfortunate” and that the government is working to ensure stability and development in the region.
The development projects unveiled during the visit are expected to improve infrastructure, healthcare, and education in Manipur.
Some of the key projects include the Manipur Urban Roads and drainage project worth over ₹3,600 crore, the Manipur Infotech Development (MIND) project, and Working Women Hostels at 9 locations. These projects aim to strengthen the local economy and promote sustainable development in the region.
However, critics argue that more concrete actions are needed to address the underlying issues driving the conflict. The opposition has criticized the trip as delayed and symbolic, with Congress leaders questioning the timing and effectiveness of the visit.
Despite these criticisms, Modi’s visit aims to demonstrate solidarity with the people of Manipur and reinforce the government’s commitment to the region.
The visit has also sparked hopes for a peaceful resolution to the ethnic conflict, with many expecting the Prime Minister to hammer out a political solution to the problem. Some groups are demanding a separate administration in the form of a Union Territory, while others are seeking justice and security.
The development projects unveiled during the visit are expected to improve roads, healthcare, and education, strengthening the local economy and helping to stabilize the region.
In essence, Modi’s visit to Manipur represents a crucial step towards rebuilding trust and restoring normalcy in the state.
While the road to recovery will be long and challenging, the Prime Minister’s assurance of support and commitment to peace and development offers a glimmer of hope for the affected communities.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the visit will have a lasting impact on the state’s fragile peace process.