In Manipur, police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) after a controversial “gun salute” ceremony was held in Saikul, Kangpokpi district, to mark the second anniversary of the ethnic violence that erupted in May 2023. The symbolic event, reportedly organized by local groups on May 3, featured armed participants dressed in camouflage uniforms firing shots into the air. The ceremony drew sharp attention from law enforcement agencies, particularly as it occurred during a state-wide shutdown and mass gatherings to commemorate two years since the outbreak of ethnic clashes between the Meitei community from the Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo tribes in the hill districts.
In response to the incident, police launched a swift crackdown in the area, seizing five single-barrel guns and multiple sets of camouflage attire. Officials confirmed that further raids are being conducted to locate additional weapons and apprehend individuals linked to the unauthorised event. “Local leaders and elders have been summoned to the police station,” said Manipur Police in an official statement. “Raids will continue to arrest the miscreants and seize the other guns. Organisers of the programme will be dealt with as per law.”
The authorities have not disclosed the names of those booked under the FIR, but police officials emphasized that legal action will be taken against anyone found to have violated the Arms Act or any other applicable laws. The ceremonial firing, viewed by many as provocative, has raised concerns about the lingering ethnic fault lines in the state and the challenges involved in restoring lasting peace. Over the past two years, Manipur has witnessed prolonged periods of violence, displacement, and deep mistrust between communities. While both state and central governments have attempted reconciliation measures and deployed security forces to restore order, tensions remain high, particularly in sensitive districts like Kangpokpi and Churachandpur.