PM Modi Visits Manipur After 28 Months of Ethnic Violence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Churachandpur on September 13, 2025, marking his first visit in 28 months since ethnic clashes erupted in Manipur.

During the visit, he inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over ₹7,300 crore, while avoiding direct mention of the ongoing crisis.

The Prime Minister visited both Kuki-Zo and Meitei-dominated areas in Churachandpur and Imphal. In Churachandpur, he met victims of ethnic violence and interacted with internally displaced persons (IDPs). A child gifted him a portrait, while another placed a traditional hat on his head.

Addressing a large gathering in Churachandpur, where the Kuki-Zo Christian community is predominant, Modi urged all communities to work for peace and harmony to secure a better future for the next generation. He assured government support for rehabilitation, announcing the construction of 7,000 new houses for those displaced by the ethnic conflict. “The Government of India is making every possible effort to bring life in Manipur back on track,” he said.

The event was attended by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, special dignitaries, and leaders from various civil society organizations representing the tribes.

Due to heavy rain and bad weather, the Prime Minister’s scheduled helicopter ride from Aizawl was disrupted, forcing him to travel to Churachandpur by road from Imphal. Residents representing different tribes, including the Thadou, Paite, Zou, Hmar, Simte, Gangte, Vaiphei, and Mizo, warmly welcomed him with traditional shawls.

The visit carried significant emotional weight for Manipur’s Christian tribal communities, particularly the Kuki-Zo groups, who were among the hardest hit during the 2023 violence. Many leaders welcomed Modi’s outreach, viewing it as recognition of their suffering.

The Meitei-Kuki conflict, which broke out on May 3, 2023, has been one of India’s deadliest ethnic clashes in recent years. It has claimed 260 lives, displaced tens of thousands, destroyed thousands of homes, and caused widespread damage to religious structures.

Even after more than two years, many displaced families remain in relief camps, with limited access to livelihoods and education. Modi’s meeting with victims’ families was presented as an effort to directly assess their needs and reassure them of the Centre’s commitment to restoring peace.