Union Home Minister Amit Shah Reviews Security Situation in Manipur
On Saturday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah conducted a review of the security situation in Manipur, focusing on efforts to restore normalcy and recover illegal arms. This marked the first high-level meeting since President’s Rule was imposed in the state on February 13, 2025.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla Joins the Review Meeting
The review meeting, which included Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and senior security officials, comes in the wake of a February 20 ultimatum for arms surrender. Governor Bhalla is currently in New Delhi for the review discussions.
Arms Surrender Efforts and Extended Deadline
As of now, over 300 weapons have been surrendered, including 246 firearms from the Arambai Tenggol group. The deadline for the arms surrender, which was originally set for February 20, has now been extended to March 6, 2025, to ensure a more comprehensive recovery of illicit arms.
Ethnic Violence in Manipur: Ongoing Challenges
Manipur has been grappling with ethnic violence since May 2023, which has claimed over 250 lives and led to widespread destruction. Thousands of weapons were looted from police arsenals during the unrest, further complicating the state’s security situation.