PM Modi’s Upcoming Visit to Manipur Raises Hopes for Peace and Reconciliation

IMPHAL, September 12 – Nearly two years after ethnic violence first erupted in Manipur, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the conflict-torn state on September 13, marking his first trip in 865 days. The visit, billed as both symbolic and substantive, has raised expectations across the deeply divided Meitei and Kuki communities for a possible roadmap to reconciliation and peace.

The Prime Minister will inaugurate development projects worth over ₹1,200 crore and lay the foundation stones for additional initiatives valued at ₹7,300 crore, according to official announcements. Major events are scheduled at Kangla Fort in Imphal and Peace Ground in Churachandpur, venues chosen to signal outreach to both communities. Large screens are being installed across the state to allow wider participation.

Security on High Alert
In preparation, Lieutenant General Abhijit S. Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding of the Spear Corps, reviewed security arrangements across sensitive zones, including Maphitel Ridge and Maphou Dam in Kangpokpi district. He praised the professionalism of Army, BSF, and CRPF personnel while urging formations to remain vigilant and mission-ready. Multi-layered security has been deployed at Kangla Fort, with tourist access restricted and sniffer dogs pressed into service.

Symbolic Outreach to Divided Communities
By addressing programmes in both Imphal and Churachandpur, the Prime Minister is seen as making a deliberate attempt to reach out equally to Meiteis and Kukis, whose fractured relationship lies at the core of the state’s crisis. Many internally displaced persons—still housed in relief camps—hope to meet him and present their grievances directly.

Retired Lieutenant General L.N. Singh described the visit as “a turning point,” noting: “This is an excellent gesture by the Prime Minister. His visit will lay the foundation—the first stone—for rebuilding fractured trust. People are waiting with hope.”

In Churachandpur, anticipation is particularly high. Local leader Ginza Vualzong said, “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 our cries for justice and a secure future will be addressed with a political solution.”

Political Reactions Split
Reactions to the visit remain politically charged. Congress leader Keisham Meghachandra Singh dismissed it as “merely symbolic,” arguing it would yield no substantive results. In contrast, BJP leaders, including spokesperson Sambit Patra and former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, expressed optimism that the Prime Minister’s presence would pave the way for dialogue and a long-term resolution.

A State Awaits Answers
Although the recent lull in violence has offered some relief, mistrust and displacement continue to define daily life in Manipur. For many, the Prime Minister’s visit is not just an official engagement but a moment of renewed hope—an opportunity to bridge divides, heal wounds, and chart a path toward reconciliation. Whether it marks the beginning of real change remains to be seen, but expectations in Manipur are undeniably high.