Imphal– Steps for Tensions in Manipur have been reducing gradually as a result of a number of drastic government measures to stem militancy and the illicit drug trade, which have long come to characterize the state. Officials have stated that more than 550 guns were handed over by different militant factions, namely the Kuki, Zomi, and Meitei groups, in a huge leap towards an ongoing peace process.
The violence in Manipur, which was triggered by ethnic tensions, land control disputes, and the spread of illegal poppy cultivation, has witnessed some easing of violence in the recent weeks. A police release on February 26, 2025, authenticated that these insurgent groups had surrendered a significant amount of weapons as part of the surrender campaign. This represents an important turning point in the fight by the state to return to stability after a period of some months of gruesome violence that ravaged several communities.
In continuation of the overall crackdown by the government, law enforcement officers have been rounding up militant hideouts, taking out major installations including bunkers and roadblocks through which extortions and subjugation of the people took place. The dismantling of these militant strongholds, coupled with the detention of various individuals associated with organized crime and the illicit drug trade, has resulted in the overall decrease of violent events. Major areas that were under the control of militants are now being reclaimed, and the dismantling of roadblocks and extortion networks has been critical in the establishment of order.
Crackdown on Drugs and Militant Groups
Among the primary reasons for Manipur’s violence has been the illicit drug trade that has bankrolled rebel groups and made the region volatile. The state government, with the cooperation of law enforcement agencies, has intensified measures to stem the flow of illegal drugs, especially opium, which is cultivated extensively in the hill districts. Poppy farming has been a major source of income for many ethnic communities in Manipur, but its contribution to public health and security has been catastrophic.
A significant cache of drugs was seized on March 1, 2025, totaling almost 5,000 detonators, a clear indication that the government was serious about dismantling the militant infrastructure that relies on the drug trade. Authorities have also pointed out that the war against drugs is an essential part of their overall strategy in restoring peace in the area.
In addition to the war against drugs, the government has been actively addressing problems concerning illegal weapons . In a statement released in late February, officials confirmed that a huge stash of illegal weapons was confiscated, and operations to dismantle illegal arms trading activities are gaining momentum. The success of the authorities in seizing such huge amounts of weapons is a testament to the government’s efforts to curtail the capacity of militant groups to engage in violence.
The crackdown has borne fruit, insofar as weapon surrender is concerned, with many militant groups committing to give up their arms. The police report attested that these groups, such as the Kukis, Zomis, and Meiteis, have surrendered over 550 weapons voluntarily, an important achievement in disarming the groups and achieving peace.
In addition, the government has also fixed a strict deadline for all the militant groups to lay down their arms by March 6, 2025, and the blockade of key routes of extortion must end by March 8, 2025. The authorities are committed to ensuring that peace returns to the state through these actions. Road routes, which were earlier blocked by militants, are now being opened to allow movement and trade.
The situation continues to remain tense, though, as most civil society actors are voicing concern about the conflict. The tension is likely to increase further, with protests against the government’s response to the situation already scheduled for the next few days. Association forums representing different communities in Manipur are demanding guarantees that their interests would be safeguarded as the process of peace unfolds.
Along with the attempts by the government to disarm and neutralize militants, there has also been greater scrutiny of foreign aid in the country. A crackdown on NGOs that accept foreign funding has resulted in the suspension of the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) licenses for a number of groups. There has also been scrutiny of certain local churches, as the government seeks to make sure that no outside influence impinges on national security.
Though the situation is still fragile, the government’s recent actions are considered a move towards a more stable future for Manipur. With the destruction of militant bases, the decline in drug trafficking, and the elimination of roadblocks and extortion networks, the state seems to be heading towards a time of relative peace. The authorities have shown optimism that, with sustained efforts, the state can get past the problems it has experienced over the last few months.
There is hope that the latest developments will set the stage for long-term peace in Manipur. Despite obstacles, the government’s firm actions reflect a firm determination to ensure that the state’s security and prosperity are revived. For citizens of Manipur, the future might at last promise to be a clean, peaceful, and prosperous state. But whether the ethnic tensions, which are embedded in the state’s history, can be resolved in the months ahead is to be seen. The Manipur situation is still volatile, and the coming weeks will be critical in determining if the state can entirely shake off the clutches of violence and criminality. The government, as well as the populace, hopes that the clean-up operations will eventually result in sustainable peace and stability in the area.
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