PM Modi to Visit Manipur Today, First Trip Since Ethnic Violence Erupted

National News: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is going to set foot for the first time in Manipur, scorched by racial violence. This will be his first visit since the violence started between the Meitei and Kuki communities in May 2023. The Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of development projects here in both Imphal and Chuda Chandpur and address public meetings.

Strategy to appease both sides

This visit is considered to be very sensitive. While deciding on the program, PM Modi has tried to give the message that the government does not give more or less importance to any community. Imphal is a Meitei-dominated area, while Chuda Chandpur is considered to be the stronghold of the Kuki community. The Prime Minister will launch large-scale schemes at both places.

From violence to President's rule

After a decision of the Manipur High Court, the situation worsened on May 3, 2023, and a clash started between the two communities. Gradually the violence engulfed the entire state. When the situation went out of control, President's rule had to be imposed in February 2024. After this, efforts were made to normalize the situation through continuous talks and agreements. Recently, the Kuki organizations have agreed to remove their camps from the Meitei-dominated areas and open the highway.

A flurry of projects

In this visit of the Prime Minister, the foundation stone of projects worth about Rs 7300 crore in Chuda Chandpur and about Rs 3600 crore in Imphal will be laid. These include five new schemes of the National Highway, the Manipur Infotech Development Project, and hostels for working women at nine places.

Eye on electoral states too

After the Manipur visit, PM Modi will also visit other states of Northeast and East India.

• Assam: Will participate in the birth centenary celebrations of Bhupen Hazarika on September 13 and will inaugurate projects worth Rs 18,500 crore the next day.
• West Bengal: Will inaugurate the 16th Joint Commanders Conference in Kolkata on September 15.
• Bihar: Inauguration of new airport terminal in Purnia, launch of National Makhana Board, and laying the foundation stone of schemes worth about Rs 3600 crore.

This visit is considered a milestone for the peace process of Manipur. Along with this, it will also give an important message of development and political balance in electoral states like Assam, Bengal, and Bihar.