Manipur is under heightened security as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit approaches. Army officials have been reviewing the security situation in the state, particularly in key districts, ahead of the Prime Minister's expected arrival on September 13.
Security Review and Preparations
Lieutenant General Abhijit S. Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) Spear Corps, conducted a comprehensive review of the security landscape across Manipur, including visits to Imphal, Bishnupur, Churachandpur, and forward areas along the India-Myanmar border. The review encompassed assessing the prevailing security dynamics and the preparedness of forces in various districts. Lt Gen Pendharkar interacted with personnel from the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Manipur Police, and other security agencies deployed across Manipur. He also visited units and sub-units along the India-Myanmar border to assess the situation on the ground.
Security measures have been intensified in Imphal and Churachandpur, with state and central forces personnel deployed in large numbers around Kangla Fort in Imphal and Peace Ground in Churachandpur, where a stage is being constructed for the Prime Minister's function. Central security teams, accompanied by state personnel, are conducting round-the-clock inspections of Kangla Fort, and boats from the state disaster management force are patrolling the moats surrounding the fort. Entry to the fort is being registered and checked, and tourist access has been restricted.
PM Modi's Itinerary and Objectives
While there has been no official confirmation from New Delhi or Imphal regarding the Prime Minister's itinerary, it is expected that Modi will arrive in Manipur from Mizoram. Reports suggest he may first visit Aizawl to inaugurate a new railway project before proceeding to Imphal and Churachandpur.
During his visit, Modi is expected to launch development projects worth over ₹8,500 crore and inaugurate projects worth over ₹1,200 crore at Kangla, Imphal. The Prime Minister's visit is also centered around the birth centenary celebrations of cultural icon and Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika, with Modi scheduled to inaugurate the official celebrations on September 13 in Guwahati.
Leishemba Sanajaoba, Manipur's Rajya Sabha MP, described the PM's visit as a "very fortunate" one for the people, noting that Modi would be listening to the hardships faced by the people. He also asked everyone to welcome Modi and not make any boycott calls.
Security Concerns and Challenges
Manipur has been under President's Rule since February, following ethnic violence between the Kuki and Meitei communities that began in May 2023, resulting in over 250 deaths and the displacement of thousands.
In Churachandpur, tension rose following acts of vandalism where unknown individuals destroyed arrangements prepared for the Prime Minister's visit. The incident led to clashes between locals and police, with reports of miscreants burning barricades and posters. Police confirmed the incidents occurred at Bongmol, Pearsonmun village, and Phailien Bazar. Authorities have taken strong action against those involved and heightened security measures to prevent further disturbances. The Churachandpur district administration has prohibited the use of aerial devices like drones and balloons.
CorCom, a forum of several armed groups in the Meitei-dominated Valley, has issued a boycott call against Modi's visit.
Despite the challenges, security officials are working to ensure a safe environment for the Prime Minister's visit. Manipur's police chief had been in Churachandpur to assess the security situation. Security forces, including police, CRPF, BSF, and Assam Rifles, have been deployed in large numbers.
