Manipur Militia Groups Surrender Weapons Following Governor's Appeal
Ethnic militias in conflict-hit Manipur have turned in hundreds of looted firearms after a seven-day amnesty, as New Delhi takes direct control of the state.
- Over 300 weapons, including rifles, grenades, and ammunition, have been surrendered by ethnic militias in Manipur, a state plagued by ethnic violence since May 2023.
- The disarmament follows a call by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, who assured no punitive action for those voluntarily surrendering looted arms within the seven-day amnesty period.
- The violence, which has claimed at least 260 lives and displaced 60,000 people, stems from long-standing tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities over land and political representation.
- The radical Meitei group Arambai Tenggol surrendered 87 weapons after meeting with the governor and submitting demands, including border fencing and changes to local policies.
- President's Rule was imposed in Manipur earlier this month after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned, with hopes that direct control by New Delhi will restore order and reduce ethnic mistrust.
Hindustan Times 
