A visit that reassures, inspires and heals

M Asnikumar Singh
The recent visit of the Hon'ble President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu ji, to Manipur will be remembered as a moment of reassurance, empathy and renewed hope. Coming at a time when the State is still recovering from the pain of unfortunate violence, her presence carried a message that went beyond formality - it affirmed that Manipur remains central to the Nation's conscience and commitment.
In her address, the Hon'ble President eloquently described Manipur as "a land of resilience, courage and extraordinary cultural richness." She acknowledged how generations of Manipuris have enriched the Nation through outstanding contributions to sports, the armed forces, art and culture, and public service. These words resonated deeply with the people, reminding us of our enduring strength and the pride with which Manipur has always served India.
The President also underlined Manipur's strategic and cultural importance, calling it "the gateway to India's vibrant engagement with South-east Asia." She spoke of the State's youth, culture and natural beauty as symbols of unlimited potential. Her tribute to the women of Manipur was particularly moving. By recalling the historic Nupi Lan movements of 1904 and 1939, she honoured the courage of Manipuri women who compelled colonial and feudal powers to accept their just demands, and rightly noted that their legacy continues to inspire every Indian.
Importantly, the visit also became an opportunity for the voices of internally displaced persons to be heard. Through her interactions, the Hon'ble President demonstrated sensitivity and concern for those who have borne the brunt of the unrest. This human engagement sent a powerful signal that the pain of the people is acknowledged at the highest level, and that their concerns matter in the journey towards peace and normalcy.
At the same time, the visit allowed Manipur to proudly showcase its rich cultural heritage. From the display of Polo - a sport that traces its origins to Manipur — to vibrant cultural programmes, the history, traditions and living culture of the State were on full display. These moments served as a reminder that Manipur's identity is rooted in creativity, harmony and centuries-old traditions that bind its people together.
One of the most touching aspects of the visit was the Hon'ble President's visit to Shree Shree Govinda ji Temple and the Nupi Lan Memorial. By offering prayers and paying tribute to the extraordinary courage of Manipuri women - our mothers - who stood with unshakeable resolve during the historic struggles of 1904 and 1939, she honoured the very soul of Manipur. Her reverence for our history and her acknowledgment of the indomitable spirit of the Meitei women not only celebrated the sacrifices of the past, but also inspired us to uphold the values of resilience, dignity and unity that they embodied. This gesture reaffirmed the richness of Manipur's cultural heritage and the timeless contributions of our brave mothers to the destiny of our society.
The Hon'ble President did not shy away from acknowledging the pain the people of Manipur have endured. She assured that addressing their concerns remains the highest priority, and reiterated the Union Government's full commitment to strengthening harmony, ensuring security, and supporting Manipur in its journey towards stability and prosperity. Her emphasis on equitable development - ensuring that the fruits of progress reach every corner of the State - offered hope that peace will be accompanied by meaningful and inclusive growth.
In essence, the President's visit was more than symbolic. It was an affirmation of constitutional values, a gesture of healing, and a reminder that peace and development must go hand in hand. As Manipur looks ahead, her words and actions stand as a guiding light - encouraging reconciliation, compassion and collective responsibility. The visit marks yet another important step towards restoring trust and rebuilding confidence, as Manipur continues its journey towards lasting peace and progress.

(The writer is an environmentalist, columnist, senior spokesperson for BJP Manipur Pradesh and former  chairman of Loktak Development Authority, Manipur.)