Imphal: In a significant move toward restoring peace and stability in Manipur, Arambai Tenggol and other volunteer groups have heeded the Governor’s appeal to surrender looted and illegally held weapons. This development signals a step forward in easing tensions across the state, with active participation from youth volunteers, community leaders, civil society organisations (CSOs), and women’s groups.
As the seven-day voluntary surrender deadline came to an end, a total of 307 weapons were handed over. Of these, 246 were surrendered by members of Arambai Tenggol at the 1st Manipur Rifles Campus. At the same time, 61 were submitted by various village volunteer forces from both the Valley and Hill districts at different locations.
During the surrender function—held at the 1st Manipur Rifles Campus under restricted media access—CMP Commissioner Munindro Mangang of Arambai Tenggol addressed journalists. He stated that their decision was influenced by key assurances provided by the Governor in a recent meeting. These assurances included maintaining Manipur’s territorial integrity without a separate administration, enhanced security measures in foothill areas, general amnesty for village volunteers and Arambai Tenggol members, and the expedited implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC), among others.
While reaffirming their commitment to protecting their community in case of future threats, the group emphasized that disarmament is a crucial step toward peace, communal harmony, and the rule of law in Manipur.
Manipur has been engulfed in ethnic violence since May 3, 2023, when violent clashes erupted between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities. The conflict has claimed over 250 lives, displaced more than 60,000 people, and deepened longstanding ethnic divisions.
Tensions between the two communities stem from disputes over land rights, political representation, and allegations of demographic manipulation and narcoterrorism. The crisis intensified when the Manipur High Court recommended Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the Meitei community—a move strongly opposed by the Kuki-Zo, who feared it would undermine tribal land protections. In response, Kuki-Zo leaders escalated demands for a separate administration.
Meanwhile, the Meitei community has raised concerns over alleged illegal immigration, viewing it as a demographic threat to their indigenous identity. They also accuse narcoterrorist groups of exploiting the conflict to turn Manipur into a hub for poppy cultivation.
With both communities citing security concerns and historical grievances, the surrender of arms marks a hopeful turning point. However, lasting peace will require sustained dialogue, trust-building measures, and an inclusive approach that addresses the concerns of all communities.
