GUWAHATI: Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Friday, February 28, extended the deadline for surrendering looted and illegal arms until 4 PM on March 6.
ALSO READ: Assam Trails Behind Several States In Jal Jeevan Mission Scheme Implementation
The decision follows demands for additional time from both valley and hill regions, but authorities have clarified that beyond the stipulated time limit, no further extension will be granted.
In an official statement, Bhalla acknowledged the requests for an extension after the initial seven-day deadline ended on February 27. He stated that individuals surrendering arms within this period would not face legal consequences. However, those failing to do so before the new deadline would be subjected to strict legal action.
After March 6, security forces are set to conduct operations to identify and take action against those still in possession of such weapons. Bhalla urged people to make use of this “last opportunity” to contribute to peace, communal harmony, and the security of the state. He also appealed to residents, particularly the youth, to surrender weapons voluntarily, emphasising that the move was essential for restoring stability in the violence-hit state.
The extension comes amid the ongoing President's Rule in Manipur, which was imposed by the Centre on February 13 after former Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned. During the initial surrender period, over 300 weapons were handed over to authorities.
