Following the Governor's Ultimatum, Over 42 Illegal Weapons Surrendered in Manipur. Efforts to Restore Law and Order Continue After President's Rule, Amit Shah Holds Meeting.
Manipur: Following the imposition of President's Rule, the situation in Manipur is gradually showing signs of normalcy. People are surrendering illegal and looted weapons following an ultimatum issued by the Governor. Over 42 weapons have been surrendered across five districts so far. Security forces have also destroyed several illegal bunkers.
Weapons Surrendered in Five Districts
According to police officials, weapons have been surrendered in Imphal West, Imphal East, Churachandpur, Bishnupur, and Tamenglong districts. In Bishnupur district, five firearms, including two pistols, six grenades, and over 75 cartridges, were surrendered. Meanwhile, 17 indigenous guns, nine 'poppies' (likely referring to improvised explosive devices), and cartridges were surrendered at the Kaimei police station in Tamenglong district.
Weapons Also Surrendered at Police Stations
Ten firearms and cartridges were also surrendered at Yaingangpokpi, Porompat, Churachandpur, and Lamlang police stations. Furthermore, security forces demolished two illegal bunkers in Mark Hill, Kangpokpi district, and three more in the Wakon hill range.
Large Quantity of Weapons Recovered
A significant quantity of weapons and ammunition was recovered during a search operation in Sairemkhul, Imphal West district. This included a magazine with 20 rounds of ammunition, an INSAS LMG, an AK-56 rifle, three SLR rifles, a 9mm carbine, a .303 rifle, a DBBl gun, four grenades without detonators, and a Chinese hand grenade.
Ultimatum to Surrender Weapons by March 6
Manipur's Governor, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, on February 20, ordered groups involved in the violence to surrender looted and illegal weapons within seven days. This deadline was later extended to March 6 following public requests. Over 300 weapons have been surrendered in the valley districts so far.
Changed Circumstances After the Imposition of President's Rule
Ethnic violence erupted between the Meitei and Kuki communities in Manipur in May 2023, resulting in over 250 deaths and displacing thousands. Due to the deteriorating situation, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned last month. President's Rule was subsequently imposed in the state on February 13. The administration is now engaged in efforts to restore peace and law and order.
