32 More Arms Surrendered Ahead of Deadline in Strife-Torn Manipur

Imphal, Manipur: A day before the March 5, 2025 deadline for voluntarily surrendering looted and illegal weapons, 32 more arms and ammunition were handed over across three districts: Churachandpur, Imphal East, and Kangpokpi. The weapons were surrendered at various police stations, including the Commando unit in Lamlai, Porompat, Heingang, and the 7th Manipur Rifles battalion unit in Imphal East district.

Authorities also received arms at the SP Churachandpur office and Saikul Police Station in Kangpokpi district. The surrender follows the extended deadline granted by Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, which now allows submissions until 4 PM on March 6 without punitive action.

Governor Bhalla had earlier urged armed groups to lay down stolen and illegal arms, emphasizing that this was the final opportunity to restore peace and communal harmony. Since February 20, over 300 weapons have been surrendered, primarily from valley districts.

Manipur has been reeling under ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023, with over 250 deaths and thousands displaced. Following the unrest, the Centre imposed President's Rule on February 13, 2025, after the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, suspending the State Assembly.