Imphal, May 1 : Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh is planning to approach the Centre in the near future with a proposal to arm locals to enable them to ward off militant threats.

In the wake of the killing of three villagers in Thoubal and Imphal West Districts, a Joint Action Committee (JAC) formed by the residents, has demanded licensed guns for locals.

A high-level central team led by Cabinet Secretary K. M. Chandrasekhar visited Manipur on April 26 and discussed the matter with senior State Government officials.

Two girls and a boy were gunned down in on March 24, while a 55-year old man was shot dead by militants on April 23.

According to official sources, about160 persons have been killed in militancy-related crimes this year.

Even though counter insurgency operations have been stepped up in the state, the killing of civilians, security personnel and insurgents continues unabated. (ANI)