Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday assured the people of Manipur that a “new dawn of hope and trust” is rising in the violence-hit state, marking his first visit since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023.
Addressing a public gathering in Churachandpur, he said, “The land of Manipur is a land of hope and aspiration. Unfortunately, violence had cast its shadow on this beautiful region. A short while ago, I met those affected who are living in relief camps. After meeting them, I can say with confidence that a new dawn of hope and trust is rising in Manipur.”
Modi Emphasises Peace and Development
The Prime Minister said the central government is working to “bring life back on track” in Manipur, where clashes between the Meitei community and Kuki tribes in 2023 claimed over 250 lives and displaced around 60,000 people. Internet services were shut down for months, and thousands remain unable to return home.
“For development to take root anywhere, peace is essential,” PM Modi said. He highlighted past efforts in the Northeast, adding, “In the past 11 years, many conflicts and disputes in the Northeast have been resolved… I would appeal to all organisations to move forward on the path of peace and fulfil their dreams. I am with you, the Government of India is with the people of Manipur.”
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The Prime Minister also spoke of ongoing negotiations with different groups, describing them as part of the government’s peace-building initiatives that prioritise dialogue, respect, and mutual understanding.
Development Projects in Focus
PM Modi highlighted several projects aimed at improving infrastructure and quality of life in Manipur. These included a new airport in Imphal, enhanced highways, expanded road and rail connectivity including the Jiribam-Imphal rail project, and new medical colleges.
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“We are going to become the world’s third-largest economy very soon… Today, our Churachandpur, our Manipur, are progressing together with the rest of the nation,” he said.
The Prime Minister also spoke about welfare initiatives, stating that nearly 60,000 houses have already been built under housing schemes in Manipur and that tap water now reaches over 3.5 lakh households compared to only 25,000–30,000 houses seven to eight years ago.
Opposition Criticism
Hours before Modi’s visit, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge criticised the trip as “tokenism” and a “grave insult” to Manipur. “Narendra Modi ji, your 3-hour pit stop in Manipur is not compassion — it’s farce, tokenism, and a grave insult to wounded people,” Kharge posted on X.
Rahul Gandhi, who has visited the state thrice since the violence began, also downplayed the Prime Minister’s visit, calling it “not a big deal” and instead accusing the government of focusing on “vote chori (vote theft).”
