Imphal, September 13: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday called for building a “strong bridge of trust” between the people of Manipur’s Hills and Valley, urging reconciliation and peace in the strife-torn state.
Addressing a public gathering at Kangla Fort in Imphal, the Prime Minister emphasized that violence of any kind was “a grave injustice to ancestors and future generations.”
Modi recalled the ethnic conflict of 2023 between the Meitei community in the Valley and the Kukis in the Hills, stressing the urgent need to restore confidence among communities. “Manipur is the ‘ratna’ adorning the crown of Mother India. Together, we must take the state forward on the path of peace and development,” he said.
Highlighting Manipur’s historic role in India’s freedom struggle, the Prime Minister noted that it was on Manipuri soil that the Indian National Army (INA) first hoisted the tricolour. “Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose had called Manipur the gateway to India’s freedom. This land has given many heroic sacrifices,” he added.
As a tribute to this legacy, Modi reminded the crowd that Mount Harriet in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands was renamed Mount Manipur to honour Manipuri freedom fighters. “This is the tribute of 140 crore Indians to the brave sons and daughters of Manipur,” he said.
The Prime Minister also lauded the contributions of Manipuri youth in defence, sports, and culture. Citing the recent Operation Sindoor, he said, “The valour of many brave sons and daughters of Manipur is included in this success of India. I salute the sacrifice of martyr Deepak Chingakham, who laid down his life during the operation.”
Modi further stressed that Manipur remains central to India’s growth story. “The 21st century belongs to the Northeast, and Manipur will continue to lead in culture, sports, and national security,” he said, urging all communities to unite for peace and development.
