First visit by Modi after violence erupted in 2023
IMPHAL, Sep 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said a strong bridge of “trust and harmony” must be built between the people of the Hills and the Valley in Manipur.
Addressing a public meeting in Imphal’s Kangla Fort during his first visit to the state after ethnic violence broke out between Kukis and Meiteis in May 2023, Modi said his government was committed to “healing wounds, restoring confidence, and ensuring no family is left behind”.
“Manipur is the “ratna” adorning the crown of mother India. Any form of violence here is condemnable. It is not only unfortunate but also a grave injustice to our ancestors and our future generations. Together, we must take Manipur forward on the path of peace and development,” he said.
“Manipur has immense potential, and we must continuously strengthen dialogue to build a strong bridge of trust and harmony between the Hills and the Valley,” he added.
The PM stressed that peace in the state was non-negotiable and could only be achieved through dialogue and unity.
“Only peace and harmony can restore the state’s rightful place as India’s eastern crown jewel,” he said.
Noting the contribution of the role of the state’s youngsters in sports, he said, “The youth of Manipur dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to upholding the pride of the national flag, and this must not be overshadowed by the dark shadow of violence.”
“As India emerges as a global sports powerhouse, the responsibility of Manipur’s youth has increased further,” he said.
Modi said the Centre has approved the construction of 7,000 new houses for those affected by the conflict, alongside a special package of about Rs 3,000 crore.
“Restoring normalcy in the lives of those who endured the heat of violence is our top priority,” he said.
Modi recalled that Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose had described Manipur as the gateway to India’s Independence.
“This soil witnessed the INA unfurling the tricolour for the first time, and has given many martyrs to the nation. Our government is moving forward inspired by their sacrifice,” PM Modi said.
The prime minister said women’s empowerment was one of the state’s strongest traditions, citing the famous all-women market Ima Keithel as a “shining example”.
“Mothers and sisters here have always been at the forefront of the economy. I consider women’s power the driving force of India’s development and self-reliance, and Manipur embodies this spirit,” he said. (PTI)