Prime Minister Modi Makes First Visit to Manipur Since 2023 Ethnic Violence
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Manipur for the first time since ethnic clashes between the Kuki and Meitei communities erupted in May 2023, a conflict that has killed over 260 people and displaced nearly 60,000. During the high-stakes visit, he will meet with displaced persons in both Churachandpur and Imphal and launch development projects worth over ₹8,500 crore. The visit comes amid sustained criticism from opposition parties over his prolonged absence from the strife-torn state.
Unpacked:
The violence began after a Manipur High Court order appeared to support granting Scheduled Tribe status to the Meitei community, which the Kuki-Zo opposed. Protests against this decision escalated into widespread clashes, fueled by longstanding ethnic tensions and disputes over affirmative action benefits and land rights.
Opposition parties and civil society groups have criticized Modi for not visiting the state or addressing the crisis sooner, arguing that his absence signaled a lack of urgency or commitment to resolving the violence and supporting affected communities.
The development projects are intended to spur economic recovery, rebuild infrastructure, and provide livelihoods in Manipur. However, some critics question whether these projects address the root causes of the ethnic conflict, such as political representation and social justice.
The conflict resulted in over 260 deaths, 60,000 displaced people, destruction of homes and religious sites, and deepened mistrust between communities. Both sides have experienced violence, and spatial segregation now exists, with persistent security concerns and disrupted daily life.