Shillong: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh issued a 15-day ultimatum to anyone holding illegal weapons in the state. He spoke Wednesday at the 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles Parade Ground in Imphal. Residents must hand over illicit arms to their local MLA or Superintendent of Police. Law enforcement will pursue those who ignore this directive. "Anyone in possession of illegal weapons, whether in the hills or the valley, should surrender the weapons within 15 days through their respective MLA or Superintendent of Police," Singh said.
The state has struggled since the crisis began on May 3, 2023. Singh pointed to outreach efforts since his government took office on February 4, 2026. He noted that community representatives from the Hmar, Paite, Meitei, and Meitei Pangal groups met in Jiribam to share a meal and discuss peace. The government claims progress in restoring order.
Security forces have been busy. Between February 5 and August 12, 2026, teams recovered over 1,400 weapons. DGP Mukesh Singh reported that from February to August, authorities seized 1,422 firearms, 7,000 rounds of ammunition, and 1,137 explosives. Security forces also arrested 491 extremists. The operation involved the Manipur Police, Central Armed Police Forces, Army, and Assam Rifles.
Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam issued a separate warning regarding transit. He threatened to use the National Security Act against anyone caught extorting or harassing drivers on National Highways. Officials also highlighted expanded anti-narcotics work. The event featured a video presentation and the release of a document titled Manipur Marches to Peace.
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