PM Narendra Modi made his first visit to Manipur since the 2023 clashes, stressing development over unresolved justice. Yet many questioned whether economic promises can heal wounds left by violence and displacement.
BY PC Bureau
September 13, 2025 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday pledged peace and development during his first visit to Manipur since the 2023 ethnic clashes, but his silence on justice and accountability for the violence that killed more than 260 people and displaced 60,000 rang ouyt lud and cklear. At the Peace Ground in Churachandpur, the epicentre of the conflict, Modi announced projects worth over ₹7,300 crore and appealed to communities to “move forward on the path of peace,” but avoided addressing demands for probes into militia violence and alleged state complicity.
Addressing a large gathering in Imphal, the Prime Minister spoke of “a new dawn of peace and progress” in Manipur, promising roads, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions as part of the state’s rebuilding. He described development as the “only true path to healing” for a fractured society still reeling from violence.
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With warmth, care and gratitude, PM Modi meets families staying in relief camps at Churachandpur, Manipur. pic.twitter.com/nmsHESk4UU
— BJP (@BJP4India) September 13, 2025
The Prime Minister met internally displaced persons (IDPs), many of whom have been languishing in relief camps for over two years. He listened to their stories, assured them of government support, and distributed aid. However, the meeting was not without its striking contrasts. Children who greeted him appeared well-dressed and prepared for the occasion — a sharp departure from the ragged clothes and fragile conditions of children who continue to live in the overcrowded, under-resourced camps across the district.
READ: Development Gap Ignored: 60% of PM’s Package Goes to Imphal Valley
“Manipur is a vital pillar of India’s progress,” Modi said. “This land of courage and determination, these hills a priceless gift of nature, symbolize your hard work. Today, the development of every tribal community is a priority.” Referring to the conflict that claimed more than 260 lives and displaced 60,000, he added: “I would appeal to all organisations to move forward on the path of peace and fulfil their dreams. The Government of India is making every possible effort to bring life back on track.”
With warmth, care and gratitude, PM Modi meets families staying in relief camps at Churachandpur, Manipur. pic.twitter.com/nmsHESk4UU
— BJP (@BJP4India) September 13, 2025
Modi’s visit came after his helicopter was unable to land in Churachandpur due to heavy rain. He flew in from Aizawl and landed at Imphal around 11:30 a.m., before travelling 65 kilometres by road to Churachandpur in a high-security cavalcade. Torrential rains had flooded parts of Imphal and damaged welcome arches along the route, but thousands lined the streets waving the tricolour, and many braved the weather at the venue. “All of you came here despite the heavy rain; I thank you for your love,” Modi told the crowd. “The love and warmth of people of all ages waving the tricolour as I drove from Imphal is unforgettable.”
While his development pledges and appeals for unity drew applause, Modi avoided mention of accountability for the violence or probes into alleged militia attacks and state complicity, a silence that would be a topioc of discussion long after Modi had left Manipur. For many in Churachandpur, the visit carried both symbolic weight and lingering doubts: a promise of roads, homes, and prosperity set against the unhealed wounds of conflict and displacement.
