President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Imphal on her first official visit to Manipur, marking a significant moment for the state, which has remained under President’s Rule since February following prolonged ethnic unrest. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla received her at Bir Tikendrajit Airport, where she was accorded a guard of honour in the presence of senior civil, police and military officials. This was her first trip to the Northeastern state since assuming office.
Her visit took place three months after the Prime Minister toured Manipur for the first time since violence broke out in 2023. In anticipation of her arrival, authorities heightened security measures across Imphal and Senapati district, with various departments working in coordination to ensure a smooth schedule. The Kuki-Zo Council extended a warm welcome to the President, while a shutdown called by banned groups partially disrupted normal life in the Imphal Valley.
The President visited the historic Imphal Polo Ground to witness an exhibition match, a venue known globally as one of the oldest polo grounds. She later attended a civic reception hosted in her honour at the City Convention Centre, where she inaugurated and laid foundation stones for several development projects, reflecting the Centre’s continued focus on the region.
On the second day of her visit, she paid homage at the Nupi Lal Memorial Complex, honouring the bravery of Manipuri women who led two historic movements against colonial rule. She then travelled to Senapati district to address a public gathering and launch additional projects intended to boost local development.
Meanwhile, the opposition Congress urged the President to dissolve the current Manipur Assembly and call for fresh elections, claiming this would help restore democratic governance and address the expectations of the people. State Congress President Keisham Meghachandra Singh appealed for urgent steps to re-establish peace and normalcy, including the safe return of displaced residents and the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.