Aware of Manipur People's Pain Due to Violence: President Murmu

PTI, IMPHAL, DECEMBER 11, 2025: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday expressed her awareness of the pain faced by the people of Manipur due to the ongoing ethnic violence and assured them that the government is committed to strengthening harmony and ensuring security.

Describing the state as a land of resilience and courage, Murmu stated that the people of Manipur have enriched the nation by contributing immensely to various fields such as sports, defence, art, culture, and public service. This visit marks Murmu's first trip to the strife-torn state after becoming the President of India.

Addressing a gathering at a civic reception, she said: "I am aware of the pain that the people of Manipur have gone through following the unfortunate violence. I want to assure you that taking care of their concerns is the highest priority for us."

At least 260 people have been killed, and thousands have been displaced in clashes between the valley-based Meiteis and the Kuki community of the hills since May 2023. The state is now under President's Rule. "My government stands by every affected family. The Indian government remains fully committed to strengthening harmony, ensuring security, and supporting Manipur in its journey towards stability and prosperity," the President affirmed.

She added that the valley and hills of the state were rich in natural beauty, and the people of Manipur are talented and hardworking. Murmu expressed confidence that communities from both the valley and the hills would remain united with renewed harmony, advancing towards greater heights of prosperity and happiness.

Earlier, the President laid foundation stones for 14 projects valued at ₹1,180 crore and inaugurated 12 projects worth ₹207 crore. These projects, spanning diverse areas such as tribal development, agriculture, electricity, drinking water, education, and sports, reflect the government's commitment to building a modern and inclusive Manipur.

"The foundation stones that were laid today cover a wide range, including tourism, electricity, drinking water, security, administration, and sports. These projects will generate employment, improve infrastructure, and accelerate economic activity," said the President. Murmu further assured that the government would ensure that the benefits of development reach every corner of the state.

She also noted that Manipur has recorded "multiple improvements" across development indicators, attributing the progress to the coordinated efforts between the Centre, the state government, and, most importantly, the hard work of the people of Manipur.

Murmu highlighted that Manipur has long been recognised for self-empowerment and women's empowerment. "Two days ago, I had the privilege of honouring four women from Manipur among the winners from across the country at the National Handicrafts Awards ceremony," she added.

On the Nupi Lal or 'women's war,' the President spoke of the brave women of Manipur who waged wars twice during the early decades of the 20th century. Nupi Lal refers to two movements — in 1904 and 1939 — led by women in Manipur, protesting British colonial economic policies and demanding reforms. Murmu said she would pay floral tributes at the Nupi Lal Memorial Complex on Friday. "I salute those brave women warriors. They inspire every Indian," she remarked.

The President also highlighted Manipur's contribution to the freedom struggle, noting that the Indian flag was first raised at Moirang by soldiers of the Azad Hind Fauj in 1944. "In honour of the bravehearts of Manipur, Mt Harriet in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands has been named Mt Manipur," she added.