Union Home Minister Amit Shah has taken decisive steps to address the ongoing unrest in Manipur, directing authorities to ensure the free movement of people across the state from March 8, 2025. The northeastern state has been under President’s rule since February 13, following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, and remains gripped by ethnic violence that has claimed more than 250 lives over the past 22 months.
At a high-level security review meeting in New Delhi, Shah emphasized the need for strict action against individuals obstructing efforts to restore peace. His directive comes in response to the Manipur governor’s recent call for the surrender of illegal and looted weapons, a measure aimed at curbing further violence. Thousands of arms were stolen from police facilities in the early stages of the conflict, and their recovery remains a critical challenge for law enforcement.
The violence first erupted in May 2023 after a ‘Tribal Solidarity March’ was organized in the hill districts to oppose the Meitei community’s demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Despite repeated efforts by the central government to mediate between the warring communities, a lasting resolution has remained elusive. The imposition of President’s rule suspended the state assembly, which was originally set to remain in power until 2027, placing full administrative control in the hands of the Centre.
Manipur’s crisis has caused immense suffering, with thousands displaced and communities living in fear. The government’s latest measures signal a renewed push to restore normalcy, but challenges remain in bridging the deep-rooted ethnic divide. With the March 8 deadline for reopening movement routes across the state, all eyes will be on how effectively these measures can rebuild trust and stability in the region.
