Manipur CM warns against brandishing illegal arms

IMPHAL — Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh, has warned individuals and groups against brandishing illegal firearms and roaming the streets.

He said this while addressing a gathering at the ‘Mass congregation on development of Lilong’ at Lilong Karampat under Thoubal district on Monday and maintained that such individuals or groups cannot take the law into their own hands and that the government will not be a silent spectator but will take strict action in accordance with the law.

He stated that he has been working to create a unified Manipur and highlighted various development projects in the hill districts, such as the Manipur Southern Cultural Centre at Behiang in Churachandpur district, the Makhel Heritage Park in Senapati district, and the Medical College in Churachandpur.

He noted that it will soon take only about six hours to travel to Guwahati from Tamenglong.

The government has never asked any of these communities to leave the state, he said, adding that all of these communities should coexist peacefully and harmoniously, much like different flowers in a garden.

He also urged the Meitei Pangal leaders to support the government in its efforts to stem the influx of illegal foreigners.

Later, on X (formerly Twitter), he shared a video of his speech and wrote, “Our beloved state faces challenges, and I want to assure you of my unwavering commitment to safeguard and protect Manipur”.

Our beloved State faces challenges, and I want to assure you of my unwavering commitment to safeguard and protect Manipur. pic.twitter.com/ZpciXOWKMD

— N.Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) December 18, 2023

In his speech on the occasion, Transport Minister Kashim Vashum emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence and mentioned that a community should not be blamed because of a few bad ones. He also urged everyone to pray for peace and coexistence in the state.