Odisha, Odisha — Security forces in Manipur have destroyed illegal poppy plants on 476 acres of land in Kangpokpi and Ukhrul districts in five days of operation from November 11 to 15, officials said.

Background

The issue of poppy cultivation in Manipur’s hills has been a long-standing concern, with many attributing the ethnic conflict between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities in 2023 to the control of trade of opium, which is produced from poppy. The conflict broke out on May 3, 2023, and has had far-reaching consequences for the community.

Sequence of Events

The intensified crackdown on poppy cultivation began on November 11, with a joint team of Manipur Police, Assam Rifles, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) conducting operations in Kangpokpi and Ukhrul districts. On November 15, the team razed approximately 20 acres of illicit poppy fields at Loibol Khullen village in Kangpokpi district. During the operation, two sacks of salt packets used in the cultivation process were seized, and equipment, including spray pumps, pipes, herbicides, and other materials found at the site, was destroyed and burnt on the spot. In a parallel action on the same day, another combined team of Manipur Police, CRPF personnel, and Forest Department officials conducted a poppy eradication drive at the hill ranges of Kotlen village, also in Kangpokpi district. The team reported the destruction of another 20 acres of illegal poppy cultivation. As part of the operation, five makeshift huts were burnt down.

Community Impact

The community has been affected by the destruction of poppy fields and sheds of cultivators. While the official response has been to intensify the crackdown on poppy cultivation, the impact on the community remains a concern. The conflict between the Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities in 2023 has had far-reaching consequences, and the destruction of poppy fields and sheds may exacerbate the situation.

Local Significance

The destruction of poppy fields and sheds in Manipur has significant implications for the local community. The poppy cultivation has been a source of income for many cultivators, and the destruction of their fields and sheds may leave them without a means of livelihood. The local significance of the issue cannot be overstated, as it affects the very fabric of the community.

What Happens Next

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the community will respond to the destruction of poppy fields and sheds. The official response has been to intensify the crackdown on poppy cultivation, but the impact on the community remains a concern. It is essential that the authorities take a nuanced approach to address the issue, ensuring that the community is not disproportionately affected.