Is RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat Visiting Manipur for Three Days Starting Tomorrow?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mohan Bhagwat's visit marks his first trip to Manipur since the ethnic violence.
- The visit focuses on engaging with local communities and leaders.
- RSS centenary celebrations aim to enhance outreach and cultural initiatives.
- Over 260 fatalities were reported due to the violence.
- Manipur remains under President's Rule since February.
Imphal, Nov 19 (NationPress) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat is set to arrive in Manipur for a three-day visit beginning November 20, marking his first trip to the state since the outbreak of ethnic violence in May 2023.
According to RSS sources, Bhagwat's visit from November 20-22 includes meetings with key community members, tribal representatives, youth groups, RSS karyakarta, and other select individuals in Imphal.
His trip coincides with the centenary celebrations of the RSS. It is expected that he will engage in discussions concerning organizational growth, outreach to youth, and cultural programs in the Northeast, as per the sources.
Arriving in Imphal from Guwahati on Thursday, he will depart from the state capital on Saturday. This marks Bhagwat's first visit since the ethnic clashes involving the Meitei and the Kuki-Zo tribal communities erupted on May 3, 2023.
His last visit to Manipur was in 2022. It remains uncertain whether Bhagwat will visit the relief camps where thousands of those displaced by violence have been residing for more than two years.
The violence resulted in over 260 fatalities, approximately 1,500 injuries, and more than 70,000 people displaced following a 'Tribal Solidarity March' held in the hill districts to oppose the Meitei community's push for Scheduled Tribe status.
Manipur has been under President's Rule since February 13, just four days after N Biren Singh resigned from the Chief Minister position.
Singh stepped down on February 9, just prior to the imposition of President’s Rule due to the ongoing ethnic strife.
As part of the RSS's centenary events, Bhagwat reached Guwahati on November 17 for a four-day visit to Assam, which is a vital component of the organization's nationwide celebrations.
During his time in Guwahati, the RSS chief interacted with noted citizens, intellectuals, scholars, editors, writers, and business leaders.
Bhagwat's visit aligns with the RSS's increasing involvement in the Northeast, where it has broadened its influence over the last decade.
The centenary celebrations of the Sangh are intended to enhance its ideological reach and connect with a diverse spectrum of society.