Imphal, Sept 13 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said peace in Manipur could only be restored by building a “strong bridge of trust” between the people of the Hills and the Valley, stressing that unity and dialogue were non-negotiable for the state’s future.
Addressing a public meeting at Kangla Fort in Imphal during his first visit to Manipur since ethnic clashes erupted between Kukis and Meiteis in May 2023, Modi said his government was committed to “healing wounds, restoring confidence, and ensuring no family is left behind.”
“Manipur is the ‘ratna’ adorning the crown of mother India. Any form of violence here is condemnable. It is not only unfortunate but also a grave injustice to our ancestors and our future generations,” the Prime Minister said. “Together, we must take Manipur forward on the path of peace and development.”
The violence last year left at least 260 people dead and displaced thousands. While Kukis primarily inhabit the Hills, Meiteis live in the Valley, deepening ethnic divides. Opposition parties have repeatedly criticized Modi for not visiting the state earlier. Attempting to blunt that attack, the Prime Minister underlined that the Centre was “firmly with the people of Manipur.”
Unveiling relief measures, Modi announced the construction of 7,000 houses for those affected and a special rehabilitation package of about ₹3,000 crore. “Restoring normalcy in the lives of those who endured the heat of violence is our top priority,” he said.
From the same stage, Modi inaugurated 17 development projects worth ₹1,200 crore. He said Manipur’s growth trajectory had shifted in the past decade. “Before 2014, Manipur’s growth rate was less than 1 percent. Today, the state is advancing much faster. The 21st century belongs to the East, to the North-east, and that is why the Centre has continuously prioritised Manipur’s development,” he noted.
Modi invoked history to frame his message, recalling that Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose had called Manipur the gateway to India’s independence. “This soil witnessed the INA unfurling the Tricolour for the first time and has given many martyrs to the nation. Our government is moving forward inspired by their sacrifice,” he said.
The Prime Minister also praised Manipur’s women, pointing to the famous all-women Ima Keithel market as a “shining example” of empowerment. “Mothers and sisters here have always been at the forefront of the economy. I consider women’s power the driving force of India’s development and self-reliance, and Manipur embodies this spirit,” he remarked.
Mentioning the contribution of Manipuri soldiers, Modi said, “In India’s successful Operation Sindoor, the valiant sons of Manipur played a key role.” He also said the government was working to reduce GST on essential goods and services, lowering the prices of cement, food, and hotel stays, which would support small businesses, taxi operators, dhabas, and guest houses.
“Manipur has a rich heritage going back thousands of years, with deep cultural roots. We are working to ensure its peace and stability and strengthen its image as a land of development and progress,” the Prime Minister said, calling for unity between the Hills and the Valley to “restore the state’s rightful place as India’s eastern crown jewel.”
