Meira Paibis Crack Down on Dangerous Tradition in Manipur

Safety Concerns Lead to Ban on Celebratory Gunfire

In a bid to ensure public safety, the Meira Paibis, a women's vigilante group in Manipur's Naoremthong, have prohibited the practice of celebratory gunfire. This tradition, where firearms are discharged into the air during festive occasions, has been linked to numerous accidents and injuries.

• The ban follows a tragic incident on New Year's Day 2026, where a one-year-old boy was injured by a stray bullet.
• The bullet, fired during celebratory gunfire, pierced through the child's residence's tin roof and hit him on the head.

Meira Paibis Take Action and Urge Responsibility

The Meira Paibis, led by Soujaijam Ongbi Farada, staged a protest demanding a total ban on the use of firearms in celebratory gunfire. During the protest, Farada appealed to gun users to avoid firing in crowded areas and to take responsibility for their actions.

She emphasized that bullets fired into the air do not simply disappear but fall back to the ground at high velocities, posing a significant risk to human life, property, and animals.

Innocent Bystanders Often Suffer the Most

Victims of falling bullets are often innocent bystanders, including children and families inside their homes. The boy's parents, Elangbam Thoiba and Elangbam Ongbi Lakhirani, are currently recovering after the bullet was removed through a surgical operation.

Police Investigate and Register Case

In response to the incident, the police have registered a case at Lamphel police station and are currently investigating to identify the person responsible for the shooting.

Implications for Northeast India and Beyond

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with celebratory gunfire, a practice that is not uncommon in many parts of India, including the Northeast. It underscores the need for stricter regulations and public education about the potential consequences of such actions.

Looking Forward

The Meira Paibis' bold stance against celebratory gunfire in Naoremthong sets a precedent for other communities to follow. As we move forward, it is crucial that we prioritize public safety and take collective responsibility for our actions to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.