Manipur bans air guns in Churachandpur before PM visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Manipur marks his first trip to the state since violent ethnic clashes erupted in May 2023 between the Kuki and Meitei communities.
Imphal: The Manipur government has announced a ban on the use of air guns in Churachandpur district ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s likely visit to the state on September 13. The order, issued by District Magistrate Dharun Kumar S, stated that the “use, carrying and brandishing” of air guns has been strictly prohibited in the district with immediate effect and will remain in force until further notice.
The directive was issued under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS). Officials said the move is part of precautionary measures to ensure foolproof security during the Prime Minister’s visit. “A VVIP is scheduled to visit Churachandpur district, and elaborate security arrangements are being made to ensure smooth conduct of the programme. It has been observed that the carrying, use or brandishing of air guns may cause alarm, confusion or pose a potential security threat during the VVIP movement,” the order noted.
Although no official announcement has been made yet by either New Delhi or Imphal, preparations are in full swing. Several rounds of meetings have been held by the state administration and security agencies to finalize arrangements, with Modi expected to travel from Mizoram before arriving in Manipur.
The visit carries significant weight, as it will be the Prime Minister’s first trip to the state since the outbreak of ethnic violence between the Kuki and Meitei communities in May 2023. The violence left over 250 people dead and displaced thousands, many of whom are still struggling to rebuild their lives. Relief camps continue to house a large number of families, while efforts toward reconciliation and peace remain ongoing but fragile.
For the people of Manipur, Modi’s visit comes at a time when wounds from last year’s unrest are still raw. Many are hoping that his presence will bring renewed attention to their plight, along with concrete steps toward healing the deep divisions that persist in the state. At the same time, there is an air of apprehension, with authorities taking no chances to avoid any disruptions during the high-profile visit.
As Manipur braces for the Prime Minister’s arrival, the ban on air guns is one among several extraordinary measures being put in place to ensure that the visit proceeds without incident, while the state continues its long journey toward peace and stability.