Imphal: In a significant development aimed at restoring law and order in Manipur, residents of three valley districts voluntarily surrendered sixteen firearms, along with various rounds of ammunition, to security forces.
The move comes in response to an appeal made by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on February 20, urging people to return looted and illegally held weapons without fear of punitive action.
Following initial hesitation, the governor extended the deadline for voluntary surrender until 4 PM on March 6, after receiving requests from both hill and valley communities. The response saw a range of weapons handed over to law enforcement authorities in Bishnupur, Imphal East, and Imphal West districts, marking a step toward reducing armed violence in the region.
Among the firearms surrendered in Bishnupur district were two SLR rifles with empty magazines, an INSAS rifle with two magazines carrying 36 rounds, a .303 rifle, and a hand grenade. Additionally, two locally-made bolt-action rifles, a local pistol with a magazine, and an SMG carbine were turned in at Kumbi and Phougakchao Ikhai police stations.
In Imphal East, security forces received three pistols, a substantial cache of ammunition, and three grenades at the state police commando unit, as well as at Porompat, Andro, and Irilbung police stations. Meanwhile, in Imphal West, arms, ammunition, and radio communication sets were surrendered at the Mayang Imphal police station, further strengthening the administration’s efforts to curb illicit arms possession.
Authorities view the voluntary surrender as a positive indication of public cooperation in restoring peace. With security operations continuing in various parts of the state, officials hope this initiative will encourage more individuals to come forward, ensuring a safer and more stable environment in Manipur.
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