Manipur is gearing up for President Droupadi Murmu’s likely two-day visit beginning on 11 December, with officials tightening security measures across Imphal despite a “total shutdown” call issued by several militant groups protesting her arrival. Preparatory work has gathered pace along the 7-km route from Imphal airport to the Nupi Lal Memorial Complex, where workers were seen repainting medians, installing decorative flags and erecting a 20-foot greeting banner near Keisampat Junction.
Although the President’s official itinerary has not yet been communicated to the state administration, security agencies have been instructed to prepare for the arrival of a high-profile dignitary. An official confirmed that while no detailed schedule had been received, teams were directed to initiate full-scale security arrangements in anticipation of the visit.
President Murmu is expected to attend a function in Imphal on 11 December before proceeding to the Nupi Lal Memorial Complex the following day to pay homage to the women freedom fighters of Manipur. The commemoration marks two major women-led uprisings against colonial rule in 1904 and 1939, and is observed annually on 12 December.
Officials also indicated that the President is likely to travel to Senapati district on the same day to participate in a separate programme in the Naga-dominated region. With both cultural and administrative events lined up, authorities are working to ensure that the visit proceeds smoothly despite heightened tensions and the shutdown call.
