Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi on Wednesday undertook a day-long visit to violence-hit Manipur to assess the security situation and review the operational readiness of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles formations deployed in the state.

During the visit, General Dwivedi called on Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and discussed key issues concerning security and development in the state, which has been under President’s Rule since February this year.

According to a statement issued by the Defence PRO, the Army Chief was briefed on ground conditions and ongoing initiatives to restore peace and stability. He also commended the professionalism, resilience, and dedication of the troops operating under challenging circumstances.

Manipur has been reeling from ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities since May 3, 2023, which has claimed over 260 lives and displaced more than 60,000 people.

This is General Dwivedi’s second visit to Manipur since taking charge as COAS on June 30, 2024. His last visit was in August 2024.