Manipur Governor Issues Seven-Day Ultimatum for the Return of Looted Weapons

Manipur Governor Sets 7-Day Deadline for Return of Looted Arms Amid Ongoing Unrest

Manipur Governor Anusuiya Uikey has issued a stern seven-day ultimatum for the return of thousands of weapons looted from state armories, marking a crucial attempt to stem the tide of violence that has gripped the region. The directive comes as security forces grapple with the aftermath of ethnic clashes that have left over 180 dead and displaced tens of thousands since May.  

Authorities estimate that more than 4,000 firearms - including assault rifles, sniper weapons and grenade launchers - along with half a million rounds of ammunition were stolen during the peak of violence. These weapons have reportedly been used in numerous attacks, exacerbating tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities. The governor's office has promised "strict legal action" against those who fail to surrender the arms by the deadline, while offering amnesty to those who comply voluntarily.  

Local reactions to the ultimatum have been mixed. While some community leaders have welcomed the move as a necessary step toward restoring order, others express skepticism about its effectiveness. "These aren't just hunting rifles we're talking about - we've seen military-grade weapons being used in village attacks," said Lien Gangte, a civil society leader in Churachandpur district. "The groups holding these weapons won't give them up without guarantees."  

The security situation remains precarious, with recent weeks seeing continued incidents of violence. Just three days ago, suspected militants armed with stolen weapons ambushed a security convoy in Kangpokpi district, leaving two personnel injured. Civil society groups have documented at least 14 separate incidents of weaponized violence in September alone.  

Human rights organizations have cautiously supported the governor's initiative while emphasizing the need for complementary peace efforts. "Recovering weapons is essential, but we must address why young men feel they need to arm themselves in the first place," noted Babloo Loitongbam of Human Rights Alert Manipur. "Without addressing the root causes of conflict, we're just treating symptoms."  

As the deadline approaches, security forces have begun setting up anonymous drop-off points at select police stations across the state. Simultaneously, intelligence units are compiling lists of suspected weapon holders based on tip-offs and previous raid records. The army has deployed additional quick-reaction teams along sensitive border areas to intercept potential arms smuggling attempts.  

The coming week will prove critical for Manipur's fragile peace process. With the state still reeling from months of violence and distrust running deep between communities, the success or failure of this disarmament effort could determine whether Manipur begins its journey toward normalcy or descends further into chaos.