Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to travel to Manipur during October, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh announced on Tuesday amid persistent security considerations and ongoing administrative initiatives to restore stability. Addressing reporters at the Chief Minister's Secretariat in Imphal following a cabinet session, Khemchand Singh confirmed the impending arrival of the Union Home Minister, noting that the precise itinerary remains under finalisation.
Addressing the press briefing, the Chief Minister remarked, "The Union Home Minister is likely to visit Manipur in October, but the exact date is not known yet." The planned visit comes as local authorities continue their twin focus on maintaining law and order while driving regional infrastructure projects forward.
Foundation Stone for Senapati Medical College
During the upcoming tour, Amit Shah is scheduled to travel to the Naga-majority Senapati district. A primary engagement on his agenda involves laying the foundation stone for a regional medical college, intended to boost healthcare infrastructure in the hill district. Administrative officials and security forces are closely monitoring preparations, given the broader security context across the state.
Third Visit Following May 2023 Outbreak
Should the visit proceed, it will represent Amit Shah's third official journey to Manipur since widespread ethnic unrest erupted on May 3, 2023. Recent weeks have witnessed fresh incidents of disturbance across the region, with 14 individuals killed during September alone, a toll that included several members belonging to the Naga community.
SoO Pact Expiry Adds Strategic Focus
The Union Home Minister's anticipated trip also coincides with developments surrounding the Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact between authorities and insurgent groups. The Central government has not renewed the annual pact following its expiration in September. Against this backdrop, the visit remains in sharp focus as the state administration balances security protocols, peace initiatives, community rehabilitation, and regional development programs.
