Feb. 2, 2025: The Manipur government has taken decisive action following violent disruptions during an anti-poppy drive in Lhungjang Village, Saikul, with Chief Minister N. Biren Singh confirming that an FIR has been lodged and reinforcements deployed.
Speaking on the sidelines of the World Wetlands Day programme at Canchipur, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh assured the public that law enforcement agencies have already taken necessary measures. “The police have already taken action. An FIR has been filed, reinforcements have been sent, and around 43 acres of poppy plantations have been destroyed,” he stated.
The Chief Minister also lauded Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for his proactive approach in the fight against drugs. “I appreciate Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. He is actively taking counter-drug activities. We have to stand united to protect our future generations from drugs,” he emphasized.
In a show of solidarity, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh also shared a Facebook post by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, wherein he highlighted the strong measures being taken against poppy cultivation in Assam. “My deep appreciation for the decisive measures taken in Assam, under the leadership of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in addressing the challenges posed by the cultivation of poppy. We stand together and remain resolute in our shared goal of building a future where every youth of the Northeast is protected, nurtured, and given the opportunity to thrive free from the shadow of drugs,” Biren Singh wrote.
Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in a strong message to drug traffickers, stated in his post: “Dear Local Pablo Escobars, sorry to spoil your planned Udta Assam party!” He further mentioned that the Goalpara Police had destroyed 170 bighas of poppy cultivation in the Char areas worth ₹27.20 crore in January. “So next time you think of drugs, think of Assam Police first. #AssamAgainstDrugs,” Sarma wrote.
Earlier, a press release from the DIPR revealed that an FIR had been registered at Saikul Police Station following violent resistance from a large armed mob that obstructed the lawful destruction of illicit poppy fields. The mob vandalized three police vehicles and threatened law enforcement personnel during the drive led by the Kangpokpi District Police, CRPF, and an Executive Magistrate.
The press note further highlighted that additional forces, under the supervision of SP Kangpokpi, were immediately deployed to restore order. More security personnel were sent to the incident area. Despite resistance, officials managed to destroy approximately 45 acres of illegal poppy cultivation.
Condemning the attack on law enforcement, the Government of Manipur reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards illicit poppy cultivation and reaffirmed its commitment to stringent legal action against all perpetrators. The administration remains firm in its War on Drugs campaign, vowing to eliminate illegal poppy plantations and take strict measures against those who attempt to hinder these efforts.
