Manipur has begun extensive preparations for President Droupadi Murmu’s proposed two-day visit to the state starting December 11, marking her first trip to Manipur since assuming office.
Officials said that workers are repainting the median along the 7-km stretch from Imphal airport to the Nupi Lal Memorial Complex and decorating the route with colourful flags. A 20-foot welcome banner has been installed near Keisampat Junction, while various government departments have put up additional hoardings and welcome displays across the city.
During her visit, President Murmu is slated to attend a programme at the City Convention Centre on the first day. On December 12, she will participate in the observance of Nupi Lal Day at the Nupi Lal Memorial Complex before travelling to Senapati district, a Naga-majority region, for another official event.
Nupi Lal Day commemorates two historic women-led uprisings in 1904 and 1939 against British colonial actions, and is observed annually on December 12.
The visit has prompted strong opposition from CorCom, an umbrella organisation of insurgent groups, which has called for a complete shutdown across Manipur on December 11 and 12. The group claimed the President’s visit would “deepen existing hostility” and alleged that her presence at the Nupi Lal observance was intended to reinforce central authority in the region.
In contrast, the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) welcomed President Murmu’s arrival, saying her presence “holds deep significance and brings hope to many who continue to live with the scars of the ongoing conflict.”
“We sincerely wish that the President, being a tribal herself, could also visit the Kuki-Zo areas to meet fellow tribal victims who have suffered immensely since the outbreak of violence,” the KZC said.
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