Ukhrul, Feb 20: The Governor of Manipur Ajay Kumar Bhalla has urged the youths of Manipur to surrender illegal arms within 7 days, warning of punitive action after the stipulated time.
In a directive issued today, the governor stated that the people of Manipur, both in valley and hill, have suffered immense hardships for the last over 20 months due to a series of unfortunate incidents affecting peace and communal harmony. He stated that in the greater interest of restoring normalcy so that people can return to their normal day-to-day activities, all communities in the State must come forward to ensure the cessation of hostilities and maintenance of peace & order in the society.
Must read | FIDAM Urges Justice for Victims of Enforced Disappearances in Manipur
The governor stated that it was in this regard that he sincerely requested the people of all communities, particularly the youth in the Valley and Hills, to voluntarily come forward and surrender looted and illegally held weapons & ammunition to the nearest Police Station / Outpost / Security Forces Camp within next seven days effective today.
“Your single act of returning these weapons can be a powerful gesture toward ensuring peace. 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 for possession of such weapons,” the directive read.
Also read | Security Tightened for KHADC, JHADC Polls in Meghalaya on Feb 21
Further, the Governor stated that the Government is committed to ensuring a peaceful resolution of the situation and safeguarding the future of our youth.
“Let us rebuild our State together with hope and trust for a brighter future. Come Forward and Choose Peace,” he added.