Imphal, Sept 2: Political activity and speculation have intensified in Manipur following media reports of a possible visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi later this month. However, as of now, neither the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) nor the Manipur government has issued any official confirmation.

Confidential government communications hint at a likely VVIP visit, prompting heightened administrative and security preparations across the state. The Director General of Police (DGP) has directed that no leave be granted to police officers from September 1 to 14, citing operational exigencies.

On August 30, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel chaired a review meeting on the proposed visit, instructing officials to prepare for the event “in a grand manner.” Security measures are reportedly being planned at Kangla in Imphal and Peace Ground in Churachandpur, with arrangements to follow the “blue book” VVIP protocol. Possible inaugurations of the newly constructed secretariat and other completed projects may be part of the Prime Minister’s itinerary.

Meanwhile, political consultations have gained momentum. Assembly Speaker T. Satyabrata met Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Raj Bhavan on Monday, reportedly discussing the formation of a “popular government.” Civil society group Imagi Meira also sought an appointment with the Governor on the same day.

While BJP functionaries in the state downplayed talk of special arrangements, opposition parties and civil society groups expressed skepticism. CPI(M) State Secretary M.K. Shanta argued there was “no reason” for a Prime Ministerial visit at this juncture, while the Congress, which has long demanded Modi’s presence in Manipur, warned that any such trip would be “largely symbolic” unless it addressed core issues like restoring free movement on highways.