In Manipur, a significant wave of voluntary arms surrender is happening in response to Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla’s appeal to return looted and illegally held weapons. Public support has been strong, with over 30 weapons surrendered to security forces across the state. Items turned in include guns, rifles, and ammunition. The surrender period is set to last another two days, and Governor Bhalla has assured no punitive measures will be taken against those complying. The call for disarmament comes amid escalating violence between Meitei and Kuki communities that has resulted in over 250 deaths since May 2023.
Imphal:
The authorities announced today that arms and ammunition are being voluntarily surrendered throughout the hills and valleys of Manipur. The general public has shown significant support for Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla’s appeal to return looted and illegally possessed weapons.
On Tuesday morning, security forces in Imphal received a substantial number of surrendered items, including 12 CMG guns, 2 .303 Rifles, 2 SLR rifles, 4 SBBL rifles, 2 magazines for .303 rifles, 12 magazines for CMG guns, 2 magazines for SLR rifles, 1 IED, 33 live rounds for .303 Rifles, 32 live rounds for SLR rifles, and 5 live rounds for SBBL rifles.
The joint security forces displayed the surrendered weapons to the press, according to officials.
There are still two days remaining for individuals to turn in illegal arms and ammunition. As of Tuesday morning, over 30 looted weapons and ammunition have been voluntarily surrendered by the public to security forces across both the hill and valley districts of Manipur.
On February 20, Governor Bhalla encouraged citizens to voluntarily surrender looted and illegally held weapons within the designated timeframe, promising that no punitive measures would be taken against those who comply during this period.
Manipur Chief Secretary PK Singh stated on Sunday that the seven-day period allowed for the voluntary surrender of looted and illegally held weapons is sufficient for those wishing to give up arms, and indicated that forces would act post-deadline to recover remaining weapons.
On 24.02.2025, the following arms and ammunition were voluntarily surrendered by the public to the following places in Churachandpur District as follows:
At CCP- PS, Churachandpur District.
i.01(one) no. of SLR 7.62mm with one Magazine.
ii.01(one) no. of .303 Rifle with one… pic.twitter.com/OOt5SERyaB— Manipur Police (@manipur_police) February 25, 2025
The Meitei-Kuki ethnic violence that started in May 2023 has resulted in over 250 deaths and left thousands homeless.
The Centre implemented President’s rule in Manipur on February 13, shortly after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned. The state assembly, which is set to run until 2027, has been placed in suspended animation.