People in five districts of Manipur have voluntarily surrendered 33 weapons and ammunition, police said on Tuesday. The weapons were handed over in Churachandpur, Thoubal, Imphal East, Imphal West, and Bishnupur districts, according to a senior officer.
Recently, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla extended the deadline for surrendering looted and illegal weapons until 4 pm on March 6. This decision came after requests from people in both hill and valley areas for more time.
On February 20, Bhalla urged people to return such weapons within seven days, assuring that no punishment would be given to those who complied during this period.
Chief Secretary PK Singh had also stated that a week was enough time for people to surrender their weapons. He warned that security forces would take action to recover illegal arms after the deadline.
Also read: Amit Shah orders free movement on Manipur roads from March 8
Since May 2023, violent clashes between the Meitei community in Imphal valley and the Kuki-Zo groups in the surrounding hills have resulted in over 250 deaths and thousands being displaced.
Amid political uncertainty, the central government imposed President's rule in Manipur on February 13, days after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned. The Manipur assembly, which is supposed to function until 2027, has been suspended, as per a notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Also Read: Manipur: Surrenders continue; Kukis rally for separate UT
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