Imphal: The number of active gun licences in Manipur has risen sharply in the past few years, with official data showing an increase from 26,836 in December 2016 to 35,117 in July 2023 and 42,344 at present.
Between July 2023 and February 2026, the number of registered licence holders increased by 20.58%, officials said, attributing the spike largely to the ethnic violence that broke out on May 3, 2023. The conflict has since claimed more than 260 lives and displaced over 60,000 people.
Officials stated that approximately 7,227 new gun licences were issued across districts after the outbreak of violence. Since the BJP-led government assumed office in March 2017, around 15,000 licences have been granted.
Prior to the violence, several residents from the valley districts reportedly applied for licences in hill districts such as Senapati, Kangpokpi and Tengnoupal, anticipating that their applications might face rejection during background verification in their home districts. However, following the unrest, applicants from valley areas have largely begun applying within their respective districts.
Authorities also reported a surge in licence applications during the peak of the clashes. “Under normal circumstances, we receive not more than 50 applications a month. During the height of the violence, the number rose to at least 300 applications per day,” an official said.
Under the Arms Act, licence holders are required to renew their permits every two years, failing which the weapon is deemed illegal. Officials said the government has issued notices to ensure timely renewal and to identify cases of misuse. There have been reports of individuals with criminal records in certain districts possessing licensed firearms.
Licensing authorities generally approve applications from individuals who demonstrate credible threats to their lives. Inspection of the weapon and verification of credentials form part of the standard procedure, the official added.
The rising number of licensed firearms has drawn attention amid continuing efforts to stabilise the law and order situation in the state.