In a preemptive security measure, the Manipur government has imposed an immediate ban on the use, carrying, and brandishing of air guns in Churachandpur district, citing potential threats during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's likely visit on September 13. Issued by District Magistrate Dharun Kumar S under Section 163 of the BNSS, the order aims to ensure smooth VVIP movements amid elaborate preparations, reflecting heightened vigilance in a region scarred by ongoing ethnic strife. This development underscores the delicate balance between security protocols and local sensitivities in Manipur, where recent violence has deepened communal divides, potentially complicating high-profile visits and national reconciliation efforts.

The ban, effective until further notice, was justified in the order as a response to observations that air guns could cause alarm, confusion, or pose security risks during the programme. Violators face legal action under relevant laws, with the Superintendent of Police in Churachandpur tasked with strict enforcement. While no official confirmation has come from New Delhi or Imphal, sources indicate PM Modi may arrive from Mizoram, prompting multiple preparatory meetings across the state to coordinate logistics and safety.

This marks Modi's first trip to Manipur since ethnic clashes erupted between the Kuki and Meitei communities in May 2023, resulting in over 250 deaths and thousands displaced. Churachandpur, a stronghold of the tribal Kuki community, remains a focal point of tensions, making the visit symbolically significant yet fraught with risks of unrest or protests.

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The measure highlights the government's proactive stance on security in volatile areas, but it also raises questions about civil liberties and the long-term path to peace in Manipur. As elections and reconciliation talks loom, such actions could influence public perception and the effectiveness of central interventions in resolving ethnic conflicts.

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