Deadline for Surrendering Looted Firearms in Manipur Expires, Resumption of Free Movement to Commence Soon
Significant Progress in the Surrender of Illegal Weapons in Manipur
Since Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla announced a seven-day deadline for the surrender of looted and illegally held firearms, ammunition, and explosive material in Manipur on February 20, there has been significant progress in the return of these items to the security forces. The deadline was later extended, and as of today, a substantial number of firearms have been handed over.
Looted Firearms Returned to Security Forces
According to police sources, nearly 1,000 firearms have been returned to the security forces since the Governor’s announcement on February 20. Over 6,000 different types of firearms and a large quantity of ammunition were looted from police stations and outposts by mobs and militants. While a substantial number of these looted arms have been recovered, the exact figure has not been disclosed.
Security Forces Conduct Flag March
In response to the Centre’s order to ensure free movement of vehicles on roads across Manipur from March 8, the security forces, including the CRPF, BSF, army, Assam Rifles, RAF, and district police, conducted a flag march in Moirang, Kumbi, and Nambol areas of Bishnupur district. This move aimed to restore order and instill confidence among the public ahead of the deadline.
Ethnic Strife and the Need for Security
The highways in Manipur have remained inaccessible due to ethnic strife between the Meitei community and the Kuki tribes since May 2023. This conflict has led to over 258 deaths and displaced more than 60,000 people. Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, under pressure to ensure law and order in the state, held a security review on March 4 and emphasized the need to implement the Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s order for free movement of people.
Enforcing Compliance and Ensuring Impartial Law Enforcement
To enforce compliance with the order for free movement, security must be reinforced with intensified patrols along critical routes such as the National Highway 2 (Imphal-Dimapur via Kangpokpi) to prevent blockades. The administration must actively engage with key stakeholders, including COCOMI, CoTU, and other community leaders, to ease tensions and address security concerns. It is crucial for law enforcement to remain impartial, and any attempts to obstruct highways must be met with firm action, regardless of the group involved.
Overall, the progress in the surrender of illegal weapons and the efforts to restore order and ensure security in Manipur are positive steps towards maintaining peace and stability in the region.