Armed license holders asked to deposit firearms
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR

Imphal, March 17 2024: Subsequent to the Election Commission of India announcing schedule for the 18th Lok Sabha 2024 election, Kangpokpi district magistrate, Mahesh Chaudhari, has issued a stringent directive aimed at maintaining public peace and ensuring smooth conduct of the election.

With the immediate enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct following the poll schedule on Saturday, concerns have been raised regarding the potential threat posed by the possession of firearms, spears, swords, and other weapons during the election period.

Recognising the need to prevent any breach of peace and uphold integrity of the electoral process, the DM, under Section 17 of the Arms Act, 1959, asked all arms license holders within the revenue jurisdiction of Kangpokpi district to deposit their weapons with the nearest Police Station without delay.

Failure to comply will result in the immediate impounding of arms.

However, certain exemptions have been outlined in the order.

Those entitled to display weapons by long-standing law, custom, and usage, as well as personnel of nationalised/ private banks requiring arms for safeguarding cash chests, are exempted from the prohibition.

Additionally, individuals registered with the National Rifle Association must obtain individual exemption orders promptly.

The Kangpokpi SP has been tasked with ensuring the strict implementation of this directive and OCs of all police stations within the district's jurisdiction instructed to comply with the order and make necessary arrangements for the safe and secure deposit of licensed arms and ammunition.

This prohibition on the possession and carrying of firearms by arms license holders in Kangpokpi district is effective immediately and will remain in force until the completion of the electoral process.

The measure aims to uphold public safety and security, ensuring the conducive environment necessary for free and fair elections in the region.

Citizens are urged to cooperate with the authorities to facilitate the smooth implementation of this directive, the DM said.

Similar order has also been issued by Thoubal district magistrate to "ensure no untoward incidents occur during the conduct of elections.

The Election Commission on Saturday announced that the elections to the two Lok Sabha seats in Manipur will be held on April 19 and 26.As per the order of the Thoubal district magistrate, "All licensees of Thoubal district shall deposit their licensed arms and ammunition to the concerned nearest police stations before March 23, failing which their licensed arms will be confiscated by district police administration" .

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