In a significant development amid the ongoing ethnic unrest in Manipur, civilians in four districts voluntarily surrendered a total of 109 weapons, along with various types of ammunition and communication equipment, to the police and security forces, officials confirmed on Friday.
According to the police, the arms were handed over at multiple police stations across Kangpokpi, Bishnupur, Imphal West, and Imphal East districts.
At Saikul police station in Kangpokpi district, authorities received a cache of weapons that included a 9mm CB1A1 pistol, a 9mm magazine, a grenade, several cartridges, and two wireless communication sets, among other items. Meanwhile, in Bishnupur district, a single-barrel breech-loading (SBBL) gun was surrendered at Phougakchao Ikhai police station.
Similar instances of arms surrender were reported at different police stations in Imphal West and Imphal East districts. The police have not disclosed the identities of the individuals who turned in these weapons or whether they belonged to any particular community or group.
Also Read: After Governor’s call, illegal arms surrendered in Manipur
Government's call for voluntary surrender
The mass surrender of arms comes in response to an appeal made by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla earlier this month. On February 13, the governor urged citizens to voluntarily return looted or illegally held firearms within a seven-day window, assuring that no punitive action would be taken against those complying within the stipulated period.
This appeal was part of a broader effort to restore order in the state, which has been witnessing prolonged ethnic violence.
Ethnic clashes and political fallout
Since May 2023, Manipur has been engulfed in ethnic violence between the Meitei community, which primarily resides in the Imphal Valley, and the Kuki-Zo groups, who inhabit the surrounding hill districts.
The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 250 people and displaced thousands, with many forced to seek refuge in relief camps or neighboring states. The deteriorating law and order situation prompted the central government to impose President’s Rule in Manipur on February 13, effectively dissolving the state’s executive powers.
This decision followed the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh. Although the Manipur Legislative Assembly, which has a tenure until 2027, has not been dissolved, it has been placed under suspended animation, as per a notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
With security forces maintaining a tight grip on the situation and continued efforts to disarm civilians, the administration is focused on stabilising the region and paving the way for reconciliation between the warring communities.
Also Read: Key Meitei group surrenders weapons as Manipur deadline ends
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