Is Prime Minister Modi Visiting Manipur Soon?

Imphal, Sep 6 (NationPress) In light of recent media speculation regarding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s anticipated visit to Manipur on September 13, preparations are ramping up at Kangla Fort in the center of Imphal. A magnificent stage is being constructed, accompanied by beautification projects in the surrounding area of Imphal West district.

Although civil and security officials have remained tight-lipped about the grand stage and beautification efforts at the historic Kangla Fort, they confirmed that directives have been issued from the highest levels to expedite these tasks. Over 100 workers are diligently engaged in both stage construction and beautification activities.

Officials overseeing the stage preparations mentioned that the setup aims to accommodate more than 15,000 people in front of the temporary structure. Additionally, the 7 km stretch of road connecting Imphal airport to Kangla Fort is also undergoing repairs and beautification, with tree trimming taking place.

BJP leaders have chosen to remain discreet about the Prime Minister’s prospective visit to Manipur. A BJP official, who preferred to remain unnamed, stated, “Once we receive official confirmation from the PMO (Prime Minister’s Office) regarding the visit, we will ensure that Modi receives a warm welcome in our state.”

A senior police officer, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that helipads are being constructed at both Kangla Fort and the Churachandpur district headquarters, while security measures are being implemented ahead of the expected VVIP visit.

Recent media reports suggest that the Prime Minister will visit Manipur on September 13, marking his first trip to the state since the ethnic violence erupted between the Meiteis and Kukis in May 2023.

The Prime Minister is also expected to visit Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram, to inaugurate the newly constructed 51.38 km Bairabi-Sairang railway project before traveling to Churachandpur district and Imphal in Manipur. Authorities in Churachandpur have banned the use of aerial devices, including drones, UAVs, and balloons.

The District Magistrate of Churachandpur, Dharun Kumar S, issued an order on September 4 designating the entire hill district as a ‘No Drone Zone’. The directive was made in light of the upcoming VVIP visit, necessitating various security measures.

“In order to bolster security, restrictions on aerial photography and videography through drones and balloons are essential, as they could pose a risk to law and order,” the order stated.

The District Magistrate further proclaimed that all aerial devices, including UAVs and drones, are prohibited in Churachandpur District, except for those sanctioned by the government.

Any breach of this order may result in legal action as outlined in section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 and other relevant laws.

The Manipur government has previously instructed senior civil and police officials to prepare for the proposed VVIP visit to both Imphal and Churachandpur.

A notification from the General Administration Department did not specify the name of the VVIP or the visit date.

According to a notification received by IANS, Manipur Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel convened a meeting with senior civil and security officials last week to evaluate arrangements for the anticipated VVIP visit.

During the meeting, the Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of organizing the VVIP visit grandly. “All security protocols as per the Blue Book, including the installation of jammers and anti-sabotage measures along the route and at the function venue at Kangla Fort and in Churachandpur district, must be implemented,” the notification stated.

Additionally, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma indicated that the Prime Minister is scheduled for a two-day visit to Assam on September 13-14, coinciding with the birth centenary celebrations of cultural icon and Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika, with official celebrations commencing in Guwahati on September 13.