The number of active gun licences in Manipur has risen sharply over the past several years, official data shows. From 26,836 in December 2016, the figure climbed to 35,117 by July 2023 and currently stands at 42,344, reflecting a steady increase accentuated after the May 3, 2023, ethnic violence.
Authorities said the rise between July 2023 and February 2026, around 20.6%, was largely driven by fears stemming from the unrest. This growth far exceeds the 6,020 firearms reported looted from police armouries since the clashes erupted.
Before the violence, several residents from the valley districts reportedly applied for licences in hill districts such as Senapati, Kangpokpi and Tengnoupal, anticipating that their applications might face rejection during background verification in their home districts. Following the outbreak, most applicants have begun applying within their respective districts.
Since the violence, around 7,227 new gun licences have been issued across districts. Overall, since the BJP-led government assumed office in March 2017, approximately 15,000 licences have been granted.
Officials recalled the surge in applications at the height of the clashes. “Under normal circumstances, we receive not more than 50 applications a month.
During the height of the violence, the number rose to at least 300 applications per day,” one officer said.
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Under the Arms Act, licence holders must renew permits every two years. Authorities have been issuing reminders to ensure timely renewals and monitor potential misuse. Some districts have reported cases of individuals with criminal records holding licensed firearms.
Experts said the increase in licensed weapons reflects a growing perception of insecurity in the state following prolonged ethnic tensions. The rise also poses challenges for law enforcement, which must balance citizens’ legal right to possess firearms with public safety concerns.
Police officials have urged licence holders to adhere strictly to renewal deadlines and warned that any firearm found without a valid licence will be considered illegal. Authorities continue to monitor districts with historically high application rates to prevent misuse and ensure law and order.
The data indicates that the spike in gun licences is both a response to immediate unrest and part of a longer-term trend, reflecting Manipur residents’ increasing reliance on legally sanctioned firearms for personal security.
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