Reception and Reaction of PM Narendra Modi's Visit to Manipur on September 13, 2025

 

Reception and Reaction of PM Narendra Modi's Visit to Manipur on September 13, 2025



Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Manipur today, September 13, 2025, marks his first trip to the state since ethnic violence erupted between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in May 2023. The violence has resulted in over 200 deaths, thousands displaced, and ongoing tensions, with the state remaining under heavy security and affected by recent heavy rains. This short visit, lasting a few hours, is part of a three-day tour covering five northeastern states (Mizoram, Manipur, Assam, West Bengal, and Bihar), focusing on development initiatives amid criticism for being delayed and symbolic.

Events and Schedule

Modi arrived at Imphal airport this morning amid heavy rainfall, which disrupted helicopter plans to Churachandpur (a Kuki-majority district). He opted to travel by road—a 1.5-hour journey—to interact with locals en route. Security was significantly heightened around key venues like Kangla Fort in Imphal (Meitei-dominated) and Peace Ground in Churachandpur, with state and central forces deployed. Heavy rain since September 12 has caused flooding in parts of these areas.

  • In Churachandpur: Modi landed (or arrived by road) and interacted with internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the 2023 violence. He laid foundation stones for development projects worth approximately ₹7,300 crore, including road and National Highway initiatives. He also addressed a public rally, urging all ethnic outfits to "embark on the path of peace" and emphasizing the government's commitment to resolving conflicts.
  • In Imphal: Later in the day, he inaugurated 17 infrastructure projects valued at around ₹1,200 crore, such as women's hostels and other facilities. He spoke at another public gathering at Kangla Fort, highlighting inclusive development under the "Viksit Bharat Viksit Manipur" theme. Supporters braved the rain to welcome his convoy, waving tricolors along the roads.

Overall, the visit involved inaugurating and laying foundations for projects totaling over ₹8,500 crore, aimed at boosting infrastructure, connectivity, and ease of living in the region. Modi reiterated the central government's support for Manipur's all-round development and peace efforts.

Reactions and Controversies

The visit has drawn mixed responses, reflecting the polarized situation in Manipur:

  • Positive Views: Local BJP leaders, including Manipur Pradesh President Adhikarimayum Sarda Devi, and Kuki-Zo groups like the Kuki-Zo Council hailed it as a "historic occasion" after nearly four decades without a PM visit to the region. They expressed trust in Modi's leadership to address grievances. Manipur's Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba called it "very fortunate" for the state.
  • Criticism: Opposition parties, particularly Congress, labeled it "tokenism" and a "grave insult" to Manipur's people, arguing it's "too little, too late" after over two years of violence. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge questioned on X why Modi waited so long, while Manipur Congress chief Keisham Meghachandra deemed it "merely symbolic." Rahul Gandhi echoed this, noting the state's prolonged troubles and shifting focus to issues like "voter theft." Some X users accused the visit of being propaganda, pointing to media hype while ignoring past inaction, with claims of over 2,000 deaths (though official figures are around 200+).
  • Public Sentiment on X: Real-time posts show a rousing welcome in Imphal with crowds despite rain, but also videos of burned posters and hoardings from the night before, symbolizing local frustration. One post highlighted Modi's road travel as a positive gesture for interaction, while others criticized the delay.

The visit underscores the government's push for development in the Northeast but highlights unresolved ethnic tensions. For live updates, sources like The Hindu and ANI are providing ongoing coverage. If you're seeking specifics on projects or reactions from particular communities, more details can be explored.

Source: Grok

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