Timely intervention improved situation in violence-hit Manipur: PM Narendra Modi

IMPHAL: Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the “impressive transformation” of the Northeast region of India “under BJP governance”, describing its journey from an “abandoned region” to an “abundant region”.

PM Narendra Modi, in an interview with The Assam Tribune, highlighted significant strides in restoring peace, particularly in Manipur, and reiterated the BJP-led central government’s “unwavering commitment” to concluding the Naga peace talks.

Emphasizing the government's efforts, PM Modi noted 11 peace agreements signed in the last decade and the successful integration of over 9500 insurgents into the mainstream since 2014.

He underscored the shift from isolation to integration, with investments exceeding Rs 5 lakh crore from various Indian government ministries in the Northeast.

Reflecting on his numerous visits to the region, totalling nearly 70 over the years, PM Narendra Modi declared, “Aaj Northeast na Delhi se door hai aur na dil se door hai (Today, the Northeast is neither far from Delhi nor our hearts)”.

Addressing the volatile situation in Manipur, PM Modi stressed collective responsibility in handling sensitive issues and pledges resources and administrative support to resolve conflicts.

He applauded the Manipur government’s efforts and the central government’s timely intervention, which significantly improved the state's situation.

Furthermore, PM Narendra Modi highlighted the substantial reduction in insurgency-related incidents, security force casualties, and civilian deaths in the Northeast since 2014.

He noted the withdrawal of the armed forces special powers act (AFSPA) from most parts of the Northeast due to improved security conditions.

Responding to concerns about China's territorial claims over parts of Arunachal Pradesh, PM Modi reaffirmed the region's integral status within India and emphasizes the government's focus on development projects worth thousands of crores for its growth.

Regarding ongoing peace talks with Naga groups, PM Modi assured diligent efforts towards a successful conclusion.

He also addresses infiltration from Myanmar into Mizoram, outlining measures to prevent it and urging the Mizoram government to collect biometric data from illegal migrants for better border management.

“We are bringing about policy changes to adapt to the changing realities on the ground. We seek peace and stability to return to Myanmar at the earliest, allowing these people to return to their home country peacefully,” PM Narendra Modi asserted.