In a bold move to promote peace in the strife-torn state of Manipur, the public has come forward to surrender a cache of firearms and ammunition to security forces in three major valley districts. The unprecedented gesture, prompted by an appeal from Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, marks a significant step towards quelling the violence that has plagued the region.
The governor’s February 20 appeal urged people of the state to voluntarily surrender looted and illegally held weapons within a seven-day window, assuring them that no punitive action would be taken against them. Following demands from both hill and valley residents, the deadline was extended to 4 pm on March 6. The unexpected response has exceeded expectations, with multiple districts reporting a substantial number of firearms and ammunition surrendered.
In Bishnupur district, security forces have received two SLR rifles with empty magazines, an INSAS rifle with two magazines containing 36 rounds, a 303 rifle, and a hand grenade. In a separate incident, two locally-made bolt-action rifles, a local pistol with a magazine, and an SMG carbine were surrendered at the Kumbi and Phougakchao Ikhai police stations. Meanwhile, Imphal East reported the surrender of three pistols, a large cache of ammunition, and three grenades at the state police’s commando unit, Porompat, Andro, and Irilbung police stations.
In Imphal West, a significant haul of arms, ammunition, and radio sets were surrendered at the Mayang Imphal police station. Sources indicate that the overwhelming response is a testament to the people’s willingness to work towards a more peaceful and secure future. The Manipur government’s decision to offer a safe and secure environment for residents to surrender their illegal weapons has received widespread acclaim, and the state’s residents are eager to move forward, hoping that this move marks the beginning of a new era of peace and harmony in the region.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the people of Manipur have taken a crucial step towards a brighter tomorrow. The question now is whether this momentum will translate into a sustained push for peace efforts. Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the world is watching Manipur, and the state’s residents are hoping that the tide of violence is finally turning in the right direction.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/manipur-public-surrender-16-firearms-in-three-districts-1179310-2025-03-05?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-03-05 10:03:00
