Political activity in Manipur has surged, with speculation growing over a possible visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi mid this month—his first trip since the outbreak of ethnic violence on May 3, 2023.
On Monday, a high-profile, closed-door meeting was held at the Babupara residence of BJP MLA Kongkham Robindro, reportedly attended by 14 MLAs, including key leaders such as Manipur Legislative Assembly Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata, Thongam Bishwajit, and Yumnam Khemchand. Sources indicate that discussions centered primarily on the prospective visit of Prime Minister Modi, with BJP MLAs expressing the view that the formation of a popular state government ahead of such a visit would be beneficial for both the administration and the people of Manipur. Participants also discussed what support or assistance Modi might extend to the President’s Rule government if he visits Manipur, and how BJP MLAs could play an active role during the Prime Minister’s visit.
Yesterday, Speaker Satyabrata reportedly held a nearly 30-minute meeting with Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla at Raj Bhavan, further fueling speculation about political maneuvering ahead of the anticipated visit. Observers suggest that the discussions may have included strategies for government formation, potentially replacing President’s Rule, which has been in place since February 13 following the resignation of former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
Sources close to the BJP bloc indicated that a stable, popular government in place prior to a VVIP visit would create a more favorable political environment and demonstrate governance continuity. Among those present at Monday’s gathering were MLAs representing constituencies across the state, including Yaishkul, Singjamei, Heirok, Thangmeiband, Wangkhei, Hiyanglam, Mayang Imphal, Thanga, Naoriya Pakhanglakpa, Keirao, Wangjing, Thongju, Jiribam, and Uripok.
Meanwhile, administrative preparations for a possible Prime Ministerial visit are already underway. A high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi on August 30 focused on security, logistics, and public arrangements in Imphal and Churachandpur. The Director General of Police is overseeing Blue Book protocols, while the Special Protection Group (SPG) will coordinate convoy and security measures. Health, public works, and urban beautification departments are also engaged in comprehensive planning for large-scale public events.
Although no official confirmation has been issued from the Prime Minister’s Office, insiders note that the scale of administrative preparations and ongoing political consultations point to a likely visit. Speculation remains high that a new government could be sworn in before the anticipated VVIP arrival, potentially aligning political timing with one of the most high-profile visits to the state since the crisis began.
