This pre-dawn operation comes on the heels of the Manipur Governor’s call for peace and a seven-day deadline to surrender looted arms. As the Assam Rifles convoy transported the arrested AT members, residents attempted to intervene. However, the security forces managed to secure those taken into custody. Meanwhile, women from the area even stopped one of the Assam Rifles vehicles, leading to a brief standoff.
The situation in Manipur has been tense since May 2023, when communal violence erupted between the Meitei and Kuki communities. The Arambai Tenggol group has been accused of exploiting and targeting the Kuki community since the start of this ethnic violence. The state and central governments have been working to restore peace in the region.
With the President’s Rule in Manipur since February 13, 2025, the Centre has assumed control of the state and security forces have received clear instructions to dismantle all insurgent groups. It has now expanded beyond the valley-based Meitei militants to include armed groups from the hills. The crackdown has led to several arrests and seizures in recent days.
In a statement on Thursday, Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla said that all communities should surrender weapons and ammunition looted or unlawfully held within seven days.
To restore peace and normalcy in the state, Governor of Manipur, Shri Ajay Kumar Bhalla, has urged the people, especially the youth, to voluntarily surrender looted and illegally held weapons. pic.twitter.com/z3YFhl7NVS
— RAJ BHAVAN MANIPUR (@RajBhavManipur) February 20, 2025
Bhalla added that no punitive action will be taken against those who return within the deadline. However, those who continue to possess illegal or stolen weapons after the seven days will face strict action, the governer said. On February 9, N Biren Singh tendered his resignation from the post of chief minister.
Also Read: All eyes on BJP central leadership over next course of action in Manipur after President’s rule
(Edited by : Poonam Behura)
