Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that any form of violence in Manipur was deeply unfortunate and a grave injustice to both the State’s ancestors and future generations.

Addressing a gathering at Kangla, Imphal, Mr. Modi urged the people of Manipur to move forward on the path of peace and development together. He recalled the State’s pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle and defence, noting that it was on Manipuri soil that the Indian National Army (INA) first hoisted the national flag.

“Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose had called Manipur the gateway to India’s freedom. This land has given many heroic sacrifices,” the Prime Minister said.

He added that the Central government has been drawing inspiration from such legacies and, as a mark of tribute, renamed Mount Harriet in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as Mount Manipur — honouring Manipuri freedom fighters.

“This is the tribute of 140 crore countrymen of India to the brave sons and daughters of Manipur,” Mr. Modi said.

PM Modi praised the people of Manipur for their immense contributions to India’s defence, culture, and sports.

Highlighting the role of Manipuri youth in safeguarding the nation, Mr. Modi said, “Many children of Manipur are engaged in protecting Mother India in different parts of the country. Recently, the world has seen the power of the Indian Army in Operation Sindoor. Our soldiers wreaked such havoc that the Pakistani army started to panic. The valour of many brave sons and daughters of Manipur is also included in this success of India.”

Paying homage to the fallen hero, he added, “I salute the valour of our brave martyr Deepak Chingakham. The country will always remember his sacrifice during Operation Sindoor.”

The Prime Minister further underlined the State’s cultural and sporting legacy. “Indian culture is incomplete without Manipuri culture. And without the players of Manipur, the sports of India are also incomplete. The youth of Manipur give their whole heart and soul for the pride of the tricolour,” Mr. Modi said.