Manipur CM Gives 15-Day Deadline to Surrender Illegal Weapons, Warns of Legal Action
Imphal, Manipur: Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has given people in possession of illegal, looted or unauthorised weapons a 15-day window to surrender them, warning that strict legal action will follow against those who fail to comply with the deadline.
The announcement was made on August 12 as the state government steps up efforts to recover weapons and ammunition that remain in civilian hands amid continuing security concerns in Manipur.
15-Day Window for Voluntary Surrender
The Chief Minister said individuals holding illegal weapons should voluntarily hand them over within the stipulated 15-day period.
According to reports, the surrender can be made through the concerned local MLA or Superintendent of Police, providing a designated channel for people to return unauthorised firearms and other weapons.
The government has warned that possession of illegal weapons after the deadline could attract legal action.
More Than 1,400 Weapons Already Recovered
The announcement comes after security agencies recovered a substantial quantity of weapons and other warlike material in Manipur.
The Chief Minister said that between February 2026 and August 11, security forces had recovered 1,422 firearms, 7,010 rounds of ammunition and 1,137 explosives.
The recoveries form part of continuing efforts to remove unauthorised weapons from circulation and strengthen the overall security environment in the state.
Government Seeks Return of Looted and Unauthorised Arms
The latest appeal covers weapons that were looted or otherwise came into unauthorised possession.
The government is seeking voluntary surrender as a way to facilitate the recovery of weapons without further escalation, while making clear that those who continue to retain illegal firearms after the specified period could face prosecution.
The move is aimed at reducing the availability of unauthorised weapons and preventing their use in future incidents.
Security Situation Remains a Major Concern
The weapons surrender drive comes against the backdrop of continuing security challenges in Manipur, where authorities have been conducting operations to recover arms and apprehend individuals allegedly involved in unlawful activities.
The state government has also been working with security forces to strengthen coordination and improve law-and-order conditions across vulnerable areas.
The 15-day surrender window is therefore being viewed as an important step in the government’s broader effort to bring unauthorised weapons back into the legal system.
Legal Action After Deadline
The Chief Minister’s warning makes clear that the voluntary surrender period will not remain open indefinitely.
People who continue to possess illegal weapons after the 15-day period could face legal proceedings under applicable laws.
Authorities are expected to monitor compliance closely and continue weapons-recovery operations alongside the surrender initiative.
The government has urged those possessing unauthorised arms to use the opportunity to surrender them before the deadline rather than risk legal consequences.
