In conflict-hit Manipur, gunfights have been repeatedly reported from villages bordering Meitei- and Kuki-dominated districts. In such areas, youngsters have formed “volunteer forces” to guard their villages from makeshift bunkers. While these villagers claim they only possess single or double barrel guns, advanced assault weapons such as AK-47, Insas and M-16 are often deployed during gun battles.

Newslaundry met such “volunteers” in the bordering areas of Imphal and Kangpokpi.

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