Coffins resurface near PM's rally venue ahead of planned Manipur visit, removed

Preparations are in full swing in Manipur for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit on September 13, but controversy has erupted in Churachandpur after symbolic coffins resurfaced near the Peace Ground, where the Prime Minister is scheduled to address the public.

The coffins, originally installed by Kuki-Zo groups last year alongside the “Wall of Remembrance” to honour those killed in the 2023 ethnic clashes, had been removed by the authorities from July to August. However, they reappeared on September 7, sparking fresh tension in the area.

Officials confirmed that the district administration removed the empty coffins again on Tuesday as part of site preparations. “They had been removed about a month ago, but reappeared near the road leading to the venue. While many civil society organisations have opposed the display, some groups are insisting on keeping them,” an official said, adding that negotiations are underway between the district magistrate, security forces, and Kuki-Zo groups.

Security has been tightened across Churachandpur district ahead of the Prime Minister’s programme. Authorities have banned drone operations, prepared helipads, and accelerated road repairs leading to key venues.

Prime Minister Modi is expected to address gatherings at Churachandpur Peace Ground and later at Kangla Fort in Imphal. This will mark his first visit to Manipur since the outbreak of ethnic violence on May 3, 2023.

- Ends