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Key Points

Congress leaders have sharply criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first visit to Manipur since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023. Opposition MPs called the visit two years too late while highlighting ongoing humanitarian crises in the state. Meanwhile, regional allies welcomed the Prime Minister's development initiatives including new railway connectivity. Modi inaugurated projects worth over Rs 9,000 crore during his Northeast tour while Manipur remains under President's Rule.

Key Points: Congress Slams PM Modi Manipur Visit as Two Years Too Late

  • Congress says PM should have visited Manipur earlier amid ethnic violence
  • Millions remain in refugee camps from Kuki and Meitei communities
  • Modi inaugurated Bairabi-Sairang rail project connecting Aizawl
  • Development projects worth over Rs 9,000 crore unveiled in Northeast
2 min read

Should have been done two years ago: Congress on PM Modi's Manipur visit

Congress criticizes PM Modi's first Manipur visit since 2023 violence, calling it delayed while allies welcome new rail projects and development initiatives.

"The Prime Minister is only addressing it today, but he should have done so two years ago. - Congress MP Manoj Kumar"

New Delhi, Sep 13

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Manipur on Saturday, his first since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023, has drawn sharp criticism from Opposition leaders, even as allies and local ministers welcomed the development initiatives launched during his tour of the Northeast.

Reacting to the Prime Minister’s visit, Congress MP Manoj Kumar said: “Now, people there should be asked, they can tell you better about the situation in Manipur over the past 2–3 years. The Prime Minister is only addressing it today, but he should have done so two years ago. At least he should have visited Manipur earlier to see what the people are experiencing..."

Echoing similar sentiments Congress spokesperson Surendra Rajput added: “It is unfortunate that Manipur has been burning for the past two years. Millions are living in refugee camps, whether from the Kuki or Meitei communities. The dignity of thousands of women has been violated, and mobs have publicly paraded them. And it is now that the Prime Minister has taken notice, which in itself is unfortunate. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has visited the area thrice..."

Meanwhile, leaders from Mizoram responded positively to the Prime Minister’s visit. Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar, while expressing gratitude, said: “I am very thankful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for inaugurating the railway station in Mizoram. Thanks also go to the Railway Minister and everyone involved in making this possible."

Earlier in the day, PM Modi inaugurated the much-anticipated 51.38-km Bairabi-Sairang railway project, connecting Aizawl to the national rail network, making it the fourth northeastern capital to gain rail connectivity after Guwahati, Agartala, and Itanagar. He also flagged off three new trains and unveiled development projects worth over Rs 9,000 crore.

Following the events in Mizoram, the Prime Minister traveled to Manipur, where he is scheduled to address public meetings in Churachandpur and Imphal, and is expected to meet local MLAs, civil society organisations, and community leaders.

Ahead of his visit, top military leadership, including Lieutenant General Abhijit S. Pendharkar, conducted a thorough security review in Churachandpur and along the India-Myanmar border.

Manipur remains under President’s Rule since February 13, following the resignation of former CM N. Biren Singh amid continuing violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
While development projects are welcome, what about the human suffering? Thousands still in camps, women's dignity violated. Development without peace is meaningless. The focus should be on reconciliation first.
A
Aryan P
At least something is being done now. The railway connectivity will boost the Northeast's economy. We should appreciate development initiatives rather than just criticize.
N
Nisha Z
It's heartbreaking to see our beautiful Manipur suffering for so long. Both communities need to come together. Hope this visit brings some healing and concrete solutions, not just photo opportunities.
M
Michael C
As an observer, it's clear that political leadership failed Manipur. When women are paraded naked and communities are at war, the Prime Minister's presence was needed much earlier. This is basic governance.
K
Karthik V
The railway projects are good for long-term development, but immediate peace and rehabilitation should be priority. Hope the meeting with community leaders leads to real dialogue and healing.

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