Imphal: The Manipur government has prohibited the use of air guns in Churachandpur district ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s expected visit on September 13, according to an official order.
District Magistrate Dharun Kumar S issued the directive under Section 163 of the BNSS, banning the “use, carrying and brandishing” of air guns in the district with immediate effect and until further notice, PTI reported.
The order explained that in view of the VVIP visit, extensive security measures are being put in place. The presence of air guns, it noted, could create alarm, confusion, or a potential security risk during the Prime Minister’s movement.
It also warned that violators would face legal action, while the Superintendent of Police, Churachandpur, has been tasked with enforcing the ban strictly.
Although the Prime Minister is expected to reach Manipur from Mizoram, no official confirmation has come either from New Delhi or Imphal. Still, multiple preparatory meetings have already been held in the state.
This would mark Modi’s first visit to Manipur since the outbreak of ethnic violence between Kukis and Meiteis in May 2023, which left more than 250 people dead and displaced thousands.
Churachandpur, notably, is considered a stronghold of the Kuki tribal community.
