01/04/2026
PM Modi Needs a Political Visit to Manipur, Not a Development Tour
By: Tongminthang Kuki, General Secretary, Kuki Human Right Council
Over two years have passed since violence erupted in Manipur, yet the wounds remain raw, and the conflict unresolved. Prime Minister Modi's first visit to the state was a symbolic gesture, but it's time for more. The Kuki-Meitei clash is not about development; it's about land, identity, and dignity.
The government's delayed response has only fueled the fire, claiming more lives and sparking human rights outrage. As India aspires to be a global leader, it's disturbing to see this internal conflict linger. It's time for PM Modi to revisit Manipur, not just as a visitor, but as a leader committed to resolving the crisis.
For the Kuki people, the wait has been agonizing. Tired of being caught in the crossfire, they yearn for a homeland, a place to call their own. The demand for a separate state or union territory is not new, but it's been ignored for far too long. The Kukis feel marginalized, their voices drowned by the din of politics. It's time for India to listen, to acknowledge their pain and their plea for self-determination.
The solution lies in addressing ancestral land rights and boundary issues. India has the constitutional power to create new states and union territories. Perhaps it's time to redraw the map, prioritize community needs, and pave the way for lasting peace. The people of Manipur deserve a future free from violence and fear. It's time for India to act, and act decisively.
The creation of a Kuki-majority state or UT could be a step towards healing the wounds of the past. It's not a zero-sum game; it's about recognizing the rights and aspirations of all communities. The Meiteis, too, have a stake in this, and their concerns must be addressed. But for now, it's time to prioritize the voices of the marginalized, to listen to their stories, and to act with empathy and justice. The road ahead won't be easy, but it's time for India to take the first step.
Narendra Modi President of India Amit Shah United Nations Human Rights Indian National Congress Human Rights Watch Rahul Gandhi Rajnath Singh Mamata Banerjee Council of the European Union