Imphal, March 4 – In a significant development amid ongoing tensions, 33 arms and ammunition were voluntarily surrendered by the public across five districts of Manipur, police confirmed on Tuesday. The surrenders took place in Churachandpur, Thoubal, Imphal East, Imphal West, and Bishnupur districts.
The move comes as Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla extended the deadline for surrendering looted and illegal weapons until 4 PM on March 6. The extension follows appeals from both hill and valley communities seeking additional time to comply with the directive.
Earlier, on February 20, Bhalla had urged the people to voluntarily return stolen and illegally held arms within seven days, assuring that no punitive action would be taken against those who surrendered during the stipulated period. Chief Secretary PK Singh reiterated that the timeframe was sufficient for those willing to give up arms, adding that security forces would take strict action to recover weapons once the deadline expires.
Ongoing Ethnic Violence and Political Uncertainty
Manipur has been gripped by ethnic violence since May 2023, primarily between Meitei groups in the Imphal valley and Kuki-Zo communities in the hills. The conflict has claimed over 250 lives and displaced thousands, exacerbating tensions in the region.In response to the escalating crisis, the Centre imposed President's Rule in Manipur on February 13, shortly after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned from his post. With the Manipur assembly placed under suspended animation, the state now faces heightened political uncertainty.
Authorities remain focused on restoring stability and ensuring that illegal arms do not further fuel the ongoing strife. The upcoming deadline for surrendering weapons will be a crucial moment in the state's efforts to curb violence and bring normalcy back to the region.
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