Imphal (Manipur) [India], February 21 (HBTV): Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Thursday urged the people of the state to voluntarily surrender illegally held weapons to the nearest police stations within seven days.
'I sincerely request the people of all communities, particularly the youths in the Valley and Hills, to voluntarily come forward and surrender looted and illegally held weapons and ammunition to the nearest police station, outpost, or security forces camp within the next seven days, with effect from today,' Bhalla stated in a letter.
The Governor has given a seven-day ultimatum to people across Manipur, emphasizing that returning these weapons would be a step toward restoring peace in the state.
'The people of Manipur, both in the Valley and Hills, have suffered immense hardship for over 20 months due to a series of unfortunate incidents affecting peace and communal harmony. Your single act of returning these weapons can be a powerful gesture toward ensuring peace,' the letter read.
Bhalla assured that no punitive action would be taken against those who return the illegally held weapons within the given timeframe.
'I want to assure you that no punitive action will be initiated if such weapons are returned within the stipulated time. Thereafter, strict action will be taken against those found in possession of such weapons,' he said.
President's rule was imposed in Manipur on February 13 following a report from the state governor.
N. Biren Singh resigned as Chief Minister of Manipur on February 9 amid ongoing violence and political instability that had plagued the state for nearly two years.
The decision, exercised under Article 356 of the Constitution, places the state's administrative functions under the direct control of the President through the Governor.
The proclamation, published in the Gazette of India by the Union Home Ministry, states that the powers of the Manipur Legislative Assembly will be transferred to Parliament, effectively suspending the state government's authority. (ANI)