New Delhi, March 1, 2025: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed security forces to ensure free movement of people on all roads in Manipur from March 8 and take strict action against those creating obstructions. The order was issued during a high-level security review meeting in Delhi, where Manipur’s law and order situation was discussed in detail.
This directive marks a significant step in restoring normalcy, as travel between Imphal valley-based Meiteis and the hill-dwelling Kukis has remained restricted since ethnic violence broke out in May 2023. While Kukis have been using Mizoram as their primary transit route, Meiteis have largely avoided the hill regions.
Security Push Amid Ongoing Tensions
The decision comes 10 days after Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla ordered the surrender of illegal and looted weapons. Chairing the meeting, Shah reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to restoring lasting peace in the state. He also stressed the need to fast-track border fencing at designated entry points to prevent further unrest.
Weapons Surrender and Extended Deadline
Since the February 20 ultimatum, over 300 illegal firearms have been surrendered, including 246 weapons from Meitei radical group Arambai Tenggol.
The governor extended the deadline for arms surrender to March 6, 4 PM, following requests from both hill and valley communities.
Focus on a Drug-Free Manipur
Shah also called for a crackdown on drug networks in the state, directing security forces to dismantle the entire trade structure.
This was the first security review meeting since the imposition of President’s rule on February 13, following N. Biren Singh’s resignation as Chief Minister. The state assembly remains under suspended animation until 2027.
Since taking over as Governor on January 3, Bhalla has held multiple meetings with various community leaders, officials, and security agencies to understand ground realities and restore peace.
The violence in Manipur erupted in May 2023, after a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ protested against the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Since then, over 250 people have lost their lives, and thousands of arms were looted from police armories.
