Urgent Action: Manipur Governor’s Bold 7-Day Ultimatum to Combat Illegal Weapons Amidst President’s Rule
Amid President’s Rule in conflict-ridden Manipur, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla has issued a renewed call for the surrender of illegal arms, aiming to restore peace in the region. Addressing mainly the youth, the Governor has urged the voluntary return of looted and unauthorized weapons and ammunition to any nearby police station, outpost, or security forces camp within a week. He assured that no punitive measures will be taken if weapons are surrendered within the deadline, but warned of strict legal actions for those retaining illegal arms afterward.
Manipur has been suffering from prolonged ethnic violence since May 3, 2023, which has resulted in over 200 fatalities and displaced around 70,000 residents, many of whom are now in relief camps. Over the past 20 months, the region has witnessed severe disruption to peace and communal harmony. The Governor emphasized the collective effort needed from all communities to halt hostilities and restore normalcy.
Meanwhile, law enforcement continues to clamp down on illegal weaponry in both valley and hill regions. On February 20, security forces uncovered a vast arsenal in Tengnoupal district, seizing three improvised mortars, two musket rifles, and other equipment like binoculars and bulletproof vests. Another operation in Maojang village led to the recovery of an AK-56 rifle, pistols, grenades, and communication devices.
This is the second recent initiative targeting disarmament. A similar call for the handover of arms took place in September 2023 under former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, with a 15-day amnesty period. As Manipur endeavors to recover from its ongoing crisis, the authorities call upon its citizens to contribute actively to peace-building efforts by disarming voluntarily.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/north-east/amidst-presidents-rule-manipur-guv-issues-7-day-deadline-for-illegal-weapons-surrender-1568822
Category : North East,Featured
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Publish Date: 2025-02-20 18:30:00
