Manipur's Governor Ajay Bhalla has called upon individuals from all communities, including Meitei and Kuki, to surrender looted and illegally possessed weapons within seven days. He assured that no punitive action would follow for those who comply with this ultimatum.
The Governor stated in an official announcement, "For a normalization of conditions, all communities in the state need to come forward, eliminate hostilities, and maintain societal peace, allowing people to return to their usual day-to-day activities."
Source: aajtak
Where to Submit Weapons?
According to the statement released by the Governor, "I sincerely appeal to people from all communities, especially the youth from the valleys and hills, to voluntarily step forward and deposit looted and illegally possessed weapons and ammunition at the nearest police station, outpost, or security forces' camp within the next seven days."
Read Also:
The statement further made an appeal saying that your act of returning these weapons can be a powerful step towards ensuring peace. I want to assure you that if these weapons are returned within the specified timeframe, no punitive action will be initiated. Post the deadline, holding such weapons will invite strict action."
Violence Erupted in 2023
Last week, a presidential rule was imposed in Manipur, and the state assembly was suspended shortly afterwards. This was followed by the resignation of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. Nearly two years after ethnic violence erupted, Biren Singh stepped down from his role.
Violence in Manipur began in May 2023, with brutal clashes erupting between the majority Meitei community residing in the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo tribal groups in the surrounding hills. The conflict claimed over 250 lives and displaced thousands.
