Mohan’s visit, aimed at addressing the ongoing crisis in Manipur, included listening to concerns about safety and resources in relief camps and participating in discussions on strengthening security measures and promoting reconciliation.
BY PC Bureau
June 2, 2025 – Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan visited a relief camp in Churachandpur on Monday, marking the first day of his two-day visit to Manipur. His itinerary included assessing humanitarian efforts in the hill district and attending a high-level security review meeting in Imphal, chaired by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, as part of the Central Government’s ongoing efforts to address the region’s challenges.
Mohan commenced his visit by touring relief camps in Churachandpur, a district severely impacted by the ethnic conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities that erupted in May 2023. These camps provide shelter, food, and medical aid to thousands of displaced families affected by the violence, which has claimed over 200 lives and displaced tens of thousands across Manipur.
Accompanied by district officials and local NGO representatives, Mohan interacted with camp residents, listening to their concerns about safety, inadequate resources, and uncertainties surrounding their return to their villages. He inspected facilities to evaluate the distribution of essentials such as food, water, and healthcare services. Residents shared stories of loss and expressed fears about ongoing tensions in the region.
READ: Adani Risks U.S. Asset Seizure, Sanction Amid Iran Oil Import Probe
Mohan reassured the displaced families of the Central Government’s commitment to their welfare, stating, “The government is fully dedicated to supporting every displaced person and working toward lasting peace in Manipur.” He instructed local authorities to address immediate shortcomings in relief operations and emphasized the need for sustainable rehabilitation plans to help families rebuild their lives.
Security Review Meeting in Imphal
Later on Monday, Mohan traveled to Imphal, where he participated in a high-level security review meeting at the Raj Bhavan, chaired by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla. The meeting brought together key officials, including the state’s Director General of Police, senior Army and paramilitary officers, and representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs. The discussions focused on assessing the volatile security situation in Manipur, where sporadic clashes and ethnic tensions continue to pose challenges.
The agenda included strategies to strengthen coordination between state and central forces, enhance intelligence-gathering, and ensure civilian safety in conflict-prone areas. Particular attention was given to the complexities of maintaining law and order across Manipur’s valley and hill districts, where differing community dynamics have hindered peacekeeping efforts.
A high-level Central team led by Union Home Secretary Shri Govind Mohan, accompanied by Director – Intelligence Bureau Shri Tapan Kumar Deka, along with Chief Secretary of Manipur Shri PK Singh and DG, Manipur Police Shri Rajiv Singh, visited Relief Camps for Internally Displaced… pic.twitter.com/5QfWGGVTNF
— Government of Manipur (@govt_of_manipur) June 2, 2025
Governor Bhalla underscored the urgency of proactive measures, stating, “Our priority is the safety and well-being of every citizen. We are working closely with the Central Government to address the root causes of the unrest and foster trust among communities.” Mohan echoed this, advocating for a multi-faceted approach that balances robust security measures with dialogue and reconciliation initiatives. He reviewed the deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) in sensitive areas and directed officials to prioritize peace-building efforts alongside law enforcement.
Mohan’s two-day visit comes at a critical juncture for Manipur, which has been reeling from the ethnic violence that began in May 2023. The conflict, primarily between the Meitei community in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo tribes in the hill districts, has led to significant loss of life, widespread displacement, and property destruction. The Central and State Governments have faced challenges in restoring normalcy, implementing measures such as curfews, internet suspensions, and increased security deployments.
This visit follows a series of high-level interventions, including those by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, aimed at facilitating dialogue, supporting displaced communities, and addressing the underlying causes of the unrest. Mohan’s trip is seen as a continuation of these efforts, with a focus on both immediate relief and long-term stability.
READ: G7 Omission Fuels Debate on India’s Global Standing and Foreign Policy
The Union Home Secretary’s visit has elicited a range of responses from local communities. While some residents of the Churachandpur relief camps expressed hope that Mohan’s attention would lead to improved living conditions and a clear rehabilitation roadmap, others voiced skepticism about the impact of such visits without concrete political solutions. “We are grateful for the visit, but we need more than assurances. We want justice and a safe way to return home,” said a displaced resident, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Civil society organizations have urged the government to provide greater clarity on its plans for long-term peace and reconciliation. Many camp residents emphasized the need for inclusive dialogue between communities to address the deep-seated issues fueling the conflict.
As Mohan’s two-day visit continues, his engagements in Churachandpur and Imphal signal the Central Government’s commitment to addressing Manipur’s humanitarian and security challenges. However, achieving lasting peace remains a complex endeavor, requiring sustained efforts in dialogue, rehabilitation, and community trust-building. The outcomes of this visit, particularly any follow-up actions, will be closely watched by residents and stakeholders hoping for tangible progress toward stability and recovery.
