Imphal, Manipur: In a big step to reduce the violence in Manipur, more than 1,000 illegal weapons have been voluntarily handed over by various groups as part of the state’s effort to recover arms. These weapons include items taken from security forces during clashes, and firearms obtained unlawfully.

The Manipur Police have confirmed that the stash of surrendered weapons includes some sophisticated stuff like AK-56 rifles, Insas rifles, machine guns, mortars, grenades, and pistols. The deadline for these voluntary surrenders wrapped up on Thursday at 4 PM, after which security forces kicked off operations to find any remaining illegal weapons in areas affected by violence.

Officials think the number of surrendered weapons could go up as they continue compiling data from different districts. The government sees this as a key move towards bringing back normalcy to the violence-hit region.

Surrender Drive Concentrates on Conflict Areas

This weapon surrender initiative was mostly centered in five districts that have been ground zero for clashes between the Kuki and Meitei communities. Reports show that these ethnic disputes, which started on May 3, 2023, have led to over 250 deaths and displaced thousands.

Security officials reported that a total of 1,023 illegal weapons were turned in across these districts alone. On the flip side, the five Naga-dominated districts of Manipur, which have stayed mostly peaceful, saw little to no weapon surrender.

Authorities believe that disarming groups in these conflict-affected areas is a critical step towards stabilizing the region and preventing any more bloodshed.

Security Forces Ramp Up Search Operations After Deadline

With the voluntary surrender period now wrapped up, security forces are ramping up operations to locate any illegal arms that weren’t handed in. Police and paramilitary forces have been sent out to conduct targeted raids in suspected areas.

A senior police official mentioned:

Our teams are carrying out systematic combing operations in areas prone to violence. Anyone caught with illegal arms will face strict legal actions under anti-terror laws."

Officials are particularly keen on recovering weapons thought to be hidden by armed groups that might still be gearing up for further confrontations.

One of the most alarming aspects of the surrender drive is the significant number of weapons that were originally stolen from security forces and police armories. During the peak of last year’s violence, armed mobs raided police stations and looted firearms, including sophisticated rifles and grenades.

A defense analyst commented on the risks posed by these stolen weapons:

The looting of security force weapons greatly escalated the crisis in Manipur. While the surrender of these arms is a positive step, authorities must ensure that all stolen weapons are recovered to prevent further escalation of violence."

Government’s Stern Warning Against Illegal Arms Possession

The Manipur government has taken a tough stance on illegal arms possession, warning that those still holding unauthorized weapons will be dealt with severely. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh emphasized that the state cannot afford to allow armed groups to operate outside the law.

In a public statement, the Chief Minister said:

We have provided ample opportunity for the surrender of illegal arms. Now, security forces will take strict action against those who continue to possess weapons illegally. No one is above the law, and restoring peace remains our top priority."

The government has also announced that individuals found with illegal weapons after the deadline will face serious charges under the National Security Act (NSA) and other stringent laws.

Impact on Displaced Communities and the Path to Stability

The ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, with thousands of people displaced from their homes. Relief camps have been set up across the state, but displaced families continue to struggle for basic necessities.

Officials believe that the surrender of weapons will help reduce tensions and pave the way for peace talks and rehabilitation efforts. Human rights activists and conflict resolution experts have stressed that disarmament is only the first step in addressing deeper societal divisions.

A senior peace activist remarked:

While surrendering weapons is a critical step, it must be followed by reconciliation efforts, economic development, and inclusive governance. The government must ensure that all communities feel secure and represented to prevent future conflicts.