Manipur's gun culture poses barrier to lasting peace, says CM

Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh has identified gun culture as a fundamental obstacle to establishing lasting peace in Manipur, a state struggling to recover from prolonged ethnic violence and armed conflict. Singh expressed the concern during a visit to Sinai Camp in Kangpokpi district, a facility designated under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement that provides temporary respite from active hostilities.

The SoO agreement framework has been instrumental in de-escalating tensions between various armed groups and state forces in the northeastern state. These camps serve as controlled spaces where militant organizations can maintain presence while adhering to ceasefire protocols, though the arrangement remains subject to periodic review and renewal.

The Chief Minister's remarks reflect growing acknowledgment among Manipur's political leadership that addressing the proliferation of firearms and normalizing civilian life requires sustained commitment beyond temporary truces. The state has witnessed recurrent cycles of violence since armed insurgencies emerged decades ago, leaving deep-rooted security challenges that complicate reconstruction efforts.

Manipur's path toward stability continues to depend on multiple factors, including successful disarmament initiatives, confidence-building between communities, and effective implementation of peace agreements. Officials have indicated that transforming societal attitudes toward weaponry represents a long-term objective critical to preventing resurgence of violence once operational agreements conclude.