Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his first visit to Manipur on Saturday since ethnic violence broke out between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo tribals in May 2023. He met a few Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from both communities before addressing gatherings in Imphal and Churachandpur.
Officials said the Prime Minister listened carefully to the displaced families, though it remains unclear what they told him. However, some locals in Churachandpur alleged that the IDPs were instructed not to raise the demand for a separate administration or Union Territory. “They were told they should not ask the PM anything about separate administration. They were permitted to talk only about health, education, infrastructure, etc.,” a resident said on condition of anonymity.
Another section of the community expressed disappointment that the Prime Minister delivered his speech in Hindi rather than in English, as he did in Mizoram. “People are not happy. He did not address their issues. The development package cannot solve the problem,” one local remarked.
Mung Hanghal, a resident of Churachandpur, said the Prime Minister’s speech felt incomplete. “The PM did not talk about any plans to resolve the conflict. We all wished he would say something about the plans, if the government has any. Also, the speech was brief. But we are happy that he came despite the inclement weather,” he said.
In Imphal, when Modi met IDPs before his speech, some reportedly broke down in tears. But many locals were left disappointed. “The PM’s speech was good, but I am not feeling assured. We don’t know the road to a solution,” said Surajkumar Singh.
Leishangthem Priyo, another resident, said displaced Meitei families in relief camps were hoping for clarity on their future. “The PM’s visit brought certain development announcements, but for the displaced families it meant very little. We expected clarity on resettlement — when will people be able to return to their homes, how will their safety be ensured, and what rehabilitation packages will be offered?” he asked.
