In a significant development today, members of the Meitei organization Arambai Tenggol voluntarily surrendered a substantial number of firearms and ammunition to the Manipur government. This move follows a meeting with Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on February 25, 2025, where the group agreed to lay down their arms.
The surrendered weapons were deposited at the First Manipur Rifles camp in Imphal. While the exact number of arms and ammunition has not been disclosed, reports indicate that the consignment is substantial. Media access to the surrender event was restricted, and only members of civil society groups were permitted inside the camp.
Arambai Tenggol, a Meitei organization, had been involved in the ethnic conflict that erupted in Manipur in May 2023. The violence has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of thousands of families. The group’s decision to surrender their arms is seen as a positive step toward restoring peace and normalcy in the region.
Following the surrender, Arambai Tenggol submitted a memorandum to the Governor, outlining several demands, including the fencing of the international border, implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) with 1951 as the base year, and the deportation of illegal immigrants. The group also called for the abrogation of the Suspension of Operation (SoO) agreements with Kuki militants and stringent action against those violating the terms of the SoO.
Additionally, they demanded the destruction of poppy plantations and the withdrawal of Scheduled Tribe (ST) status from illegal immigrants. The surrender of arms by Arambai Tenggol is expected to contribute to the ongoing efforts to bring peace to Manipur, which has been grappling with ethnic tensions and violence for several years. Authorities hope that this development will pave the way for further dialogue and reconciliation among the communities in the state.
