The Federation of Civil Society Organisations (FOCS) has appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s long-awaited visit to Manipur but stressed that the trip should not remain a symbolic gesture.
The body outlined five urgent priorities for the state: reopening of national highways, safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs), strengthening security and accountability, a transparent demographic study, and an unconditional, inclusive dialogue.
FOCS noted that the people of Manipur, who have suffered over two years of violence and displacement since May 3, 2023, expect the Prime Minister’s presence to translate into meaningful action for peace, reconciliation, and justice.
The organisation recalled that it had submitted a five-point memorandum to the Ministry of Home Affairs during a meeting in Imphal on March 12, 2025. Despite assurances, many of the measures remain unimplemented. It particularly highlighted the continued restriction of free movement along the National Highways, despite Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s directive on March 8, 2025, to reopen them.
FOCS maintained that genuine peace is not an event but a process requiring trust, dialogue, and inclusive participation. It urged the Prime Minister to ensure that constitutional rights under Article 19(1)(d) are enforced, IDPs are rehabilitated, and armed attacks on civilians are prevented.
Reiterating its stand, the organisation said the ultimate goal of the peace process must be a solution acceptable to all—one that safeguards Manipur’s territorial integrity, cultural identity, and fundamental rights. Only sincerity, inclusiveness, and decisive action, it added, can heal Manipur’s wounds.
