For the past two years, the northeastern state of Manipur has been shaken by ethnic clashes and violent incidents. The conflict that began in May 2023 between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo tribes led to hundreds of deaths and displaced lakhs of people. In this backdrop, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s absence from Manipur for two years drew severe criticism across the country. However, on September 13, 2025, Modi finally visited the state, launching development projects and promising peace. This article analyses the political and social implications of his visit.

Roots of the Manipur Conflict: Ethnic Divisions and Land Rights

Manipur is home to three major groups: the Meiteis (majority in the Imphal Valley), the Nagas, and the Kuki-Zo tribes. The Meiteis have been demanding Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, which the Kukis and Nagas strongly oppose. Land rights are also a core issue: Meiteis cannot purchase land in the hill areas, which are protected, creating economic and social inequalities.

In May 2023, after the Manipur High Court suggested granting ST status to Meiteis, violence erupted. The result: over 260 deaths, more than 60,000 displaced people, prolonged internet bans, and curfews. Accusations of drug trafficking and illegal forest encroachments further complicated the crisis.

Analysts stress the need for dialogue among tribes, clarity on land rights, and protection of human rights. But despite the BJP government being in power in the state, critics argue that the Centre failed to respond effectively.

Two Years of Silence: Why Modi Didn’t Visit, and the Criticism

From May 2023 to September 2025, PM Modi refrained from visiting Manipur-a gap that triggered national debate. Analysts suggest multiple reasons: the political sensitivity of the conflict, the risk of upsetting one community while supporting another, and fears that his presence could further inflame tensions. Instead, responsibility was left with Chief Minister N. Biren Singh’s state government.

Observers also point out that the Centre wanted to avoid international media attention, as atrocities against women and the refugee crisis in Manipur were making global headlines.

Opposition parties like the Congress strongly condemned Modi’s silence: “While people were dying, the Prime Minister was busy with foreign tours.” Critics also claimed that northeastern states are often sidelined due to their low political priority. Even the U.S. and the United Nations expressed concerns about the situation.

The Visit After Two Years: Reasons and Expectations

Why did Modi finally visit? Analysts cite a combination of factors: a relative calming of the situation, the need to rebuild trust among the people, and the upcoming 2026 Assembly elections. Political strategy to revive BJP’s support base, opposition criticism, and international pressure also pushed for action.

The visit is being seen as a “gesture of sympathy.” By meeting victims and announcing aid, Modi aimed to send the message: “We have not forgotten you.”

Development Works and Promises

On September 13, Modi visited Churachandpur and Imphal, where he inaugurated projects worth ₹8,500 crore.

Inaugurated:

Civil Secretariat

Manipur Police Headquarters

Ima Markets (Tengnoupal, Noney, and others)

Integrated Command Centre under Smart City Mission

Imphal River Front and Mall Road

Thoubal Multipurpose Project

Modern Cancer Hospital (foundation laid)

200-bed Covid Hospital

Foundation Stones (₹7,300 crore):

Urban roads and drainage (₹3,600 crore)

Five National Highways (₹2,500 crore)

Manipur Infotech Development (digital infrastructure)

Working Women’s Hostels

Modi promised peace, hill-valley harmony, improved education, healthcare, and better connectivity. He also held meetings with victims’ families and announced relief measures.

Public Sentiment: Mixed Reactions

The public response was divided. Young people expressed enthusiasm over promises of roads and job opportunities. But many remain skeptical, pointing out that earlier promises were never fulfilled. Critics argue that this was more about political optics than genuine empathy.

On the other hand, some groups, such as the Kuki-Zo Council, viewed the reopening of National Highway 2 as a hopeful step towards peace.

Final Analysis: Long-Term Actions Needed for Real Peace

Modi’s visit combined public relations, political necessity, and humanitarian obligation. While the development promises sound encouraging, sustainable peace in Manipur is impossible without addressing deep-rooted ethnic divisions. The Centre must push for genuine dialogue and fair decisions to resolve land and identity disputes.

For the people of Manipur, what matters most is not promises, but implementation. The state’s crisis remains a critical test for India’s unity.