Imphal: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday made his first visit to Manipur since ethnic clashes broke out in May 2023, assuring the people that the Centre stands firmly with the state as it works to overcome the scars of violence. His arrival marked a significant moment, as this was his first physical engagement with Manipur since the outbreak of unrest that left deep divisions between communities.
During his day-long visit, Modi met survivors staying in relief camps and expressed optimism about the state’s future. “Manipur is a land of hope and promise, but unfortunately, violence had gripped this vibrant region,” he said, addressing displaced families. He added, “A little while ago, I met the people affected who are staying in camps, and after speaking with them, I can say that a new dawn of hope and trust is breaking in Manipur.”
The ethnic clashes that erupted in May 2023 between the Meitei and Kuki communities claimed over 200 lives and displaced thousands, pushing many into temporary shelters. While intermittent violence continued into 2024, the Centre and the state administration have since stepped up rehabilitation and security measures. Modi’s visit was seen as both symbolic and reassuring at a time when peace talks and reconciliation efforts are underway.
The Prime Minister stressed that rebuilding trust and normalcy was his government’s priority. “The government is with you in every step of this journey. Together, we will restore harmony, heal the wounds, and ensure that Manipur’s true potential is realised,” he told locals and community leaders.
#WATCH | Churachandpur, Manipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, “… There is ‘Mani’ in the name of Manipur. It is that ‘Mani’ which is going to make the entire Northeast shine in the future. The Government of India has been trying to take Manipur forward in the path of… pic.twitter.com/XVFzUnyOUs
— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2025
“There is ‘Mani’ in the name of Manipur. It is that ‘Mani’ which is going to make the entire Northeast shine in the future. The Government of India has been trying to take Manipur forward in the path of development. A while ago, the foundation stone of projects worth around Rs 7,000 crore was laid here…” he said.
He also emphasised that development initiatives will not slow down despite the setbacks. “Manipur’s youth, its culture, its traditions and its natural beauty are unmatched. The Centre will continue to support every effort to bring peace, progress and prosperity to the state,” Modi said.
The Prime Minister’s outreach is expected to give fresh momentum to peacebuilding, as both community leaders and civil society groups have been calling for stronger engagement from the Centre. While security concerns remain, Modi’s assertion that “a new dawn of hope and trust is breaking in Manipur” was read as a commitment to long-term stability and reconciliation.
The visit, his first since the turmoil began, was closely watched across the Northeast and in political circles in Delhi, as it came after repeated demands from opposition parties and activists for him to engage directly with the people of Manipur. For the affected families in camps, his assurance that “the government is with you” struck a chord, even as many await concrete steps on rehabilitation, justice and security.
