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By choosing to address programmes in both Imphal and Churachandpur, the Prime Minister is seen as extending equal importance to both Meiteis and Kukis
The PM will visit Manipur on September 13 to inaugurate development projects worth over Rs 1,200 crore and lay the foundation stones for additional projects valued at Rs 7,300 crore, according to official banners displayed across the state. File pic/PTI
Manipur, which had been grappling with violence, unrest, and loss of lives since May 3, 2023, is preparing for a high-profile visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit, taking place after nearly two years—close to 865 days—has raised expectations among both the Meitei and Kuki communities, who are hoping for reconciliation and a roadmap toward peace.
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The PM will visit Manipur on September 13 to inaugurate development projects worth over Rs 1,200 crore and lay the foundation stones for additional projects valued at Rs 7,300 crore, according to official banners displayed across the state.
Major preparations are underway at Kangla Fort in Imphal and the Peace Ground in Churachandpur, the two venues where the Prime Minister is expected to address public gatherings. Security has been heightened across sensitive areas, with additional forces deployed and big screens installed in several locations to broadcast the PM’s events to wider audiences.
Security Reviewed Ahead of Visit
In advance of the visit, Lieutenant General Abhijit S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding of the Spear Corps, carried out a comprehensive review of the security arrangements. He inspected strategic locations, including the Maphitel Ridge and Maphou Dam area in Kangpokpi District, both of which are considered sensitive zones. The Corps Commander conducted an operational review of Army formations deployed in the state and interacted with commanders, troops, ex-servicemen, as well as BSF and CRPF personnel.
Lt Gen Pendharkar praised the forces for their professionalism and composure in handling complex ground realities. Stressing the importance of vigilance, he directed formations to remain mission-ready to tackle rapidly evolving challenges in conflict-prone areas.
At Kangla in Imphal, where the Prime Minister will address a major public programme, multi-layered security has been put in place. Tourist access to sensitive sites has been restricted, and sniffer dogs have been deployed to scan the fort. Similar elaborate arrangements are being carried out at Churachandpur’s Peace Ground, which has emerged as a focal point for the Kuki community.
Symbolic Outreach
By choosing to address programmes in both Imphal and Churachandpur, the Prime Minister is seen as extending equal importance to both Meiteis and Kukis, whose fractured ties lie at the heart of Manipur’s prolonged crisis. Internally displaced persons, many of whom remain in relief camps more than two years after violence first erupted, are also hoping for an opportunity to meet him and convey their concerns directly.
Speaking with News18, retired Lieutenant General LN Singh from Imphal described the visit as a turning point. “This is an excellent gesture by the Prime Minister. Whatever has happened in Manipur has caused a deep fracture, and it will take time to heal. His visit will lay the foundation—the first stone—for the rebuilding process. People are looking forward to it with hope, as they believe there could be important announcements for Manipur,” he said.
In Churachandpur, anticipation is equally high. Local leader Ginza Vualzong told News18, “The Prime Minister’s visit is historic, as the last time a leader from Delhi came here was nearly 40 years ago. We welcome Shri Narendra Modi and hope that under his leadership, our cries for justice and a secure future will be addressed by granting us a political solution.”
Political Reactions
The Prime Minister’s visit has naturally drawn political reactions. Congress leader Keisham Meghachandra Singh was dismissive, telling News18, “This is merely symbolic. It will have no real significance. The people of Manipur have no expectations from this visit.”
On the other hand, BJP leaders remain optimistic. National spokesperson Sambit Patra, along with former Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, expressed hope that the Prime Minister’s outreach will pave the way for a political solution to the state’s ongoing conflict.
Hopes for a Way Forward
Despite relative calm in recent weeks, deep mistrust and displacement continue to define life in Manipur. The Prime Minister’s visit is being seen by many as an attempt to set the groundwork for peace-building in a state torn by ethnic divisions. For ordinary citizens—whether in relief camps or towns preparing for his arrival—the overarching demand remains the same: a permanent solution and a path forward towards reconciliation.
As Manipur awaits Prime Minister Modi’s arrival, the visit carries both symbolic weight and real expectations. Whether it can serve as the first step in bridging divides and healing the state’s fractures remains to be seen, but for many, it is a moment of renewed hope.
About the Author
Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and women’s issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East…Read More
Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and women’s issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East… Read More
Imphal, India, India
September 12, 2025, 07:30 IST
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