Q: Does Narco-terrorism exist in Manipur? Meitel civil society leaders and politicians are using the terms extensively.
A. In Manipur, I might have been the first person to use this term. There is evidence to suggest the existence of narco-terrorism. The typical characteristics associated with it, such as the utilization of drug profits to acquire arms and use of power and money to terrorize people, can be observed in the region.
Q. Do all stake holders in the drug cartel—farmers, middlemen and international traders—belong to the same commodity as it is portrayed?
A. The poppy cartel in Manipur can be divided into four distinct groups. First, there is the top-level group that reaps the maximum share of profits. Second, there are the financiers. Third, there are militants, commonly referred to as narco-terrorists. Last, there are the farmers, who are the poorest among these groups.
Farmers are the ones who work tirelessly, investing their labour and time in poppy cultivation. They face extreme poverty and struggle to provide even the basic needs for their children, such as warm clothing in the winters, which coincides with poppy season. Middlemen then enter the picture, followed by militants and financiers. It is important to note that these groups comprise individuals from all communities. Affluent individuals from various communities actively finance the poppy business. Some of the wealthiest elites across communities are involved in supporting and investing in the poppy cartel.
Q. What role do politicians play in the narco- terrorism business in Manipur?
A. A few months ago, the chief minister of Manipur acknowledged that militants under suspension of operation agreements were involved in the drug business. These militants, who are considered narco-terrorists have ceasefire arrangements with the state and Central governments. The government of Manipur has custody over these militants. If individuals under custody of the government are freely moving with arms, collecting drug taxes, and involving themselves in the poppy cartel, it raises questions about the responsibility of the custodial authorities. It is the duty of the custodian to ensure that those under their custody are not engaged in illegal activities. (IPA Service)
THOUNAOJAM BRINDA, FORMER POLICE OFFICER, IS STILL FIGHTING NARCO TERRORISM IN MANIPUR
SHE EXPOSES HOW THE STATE ADMINISTRATION GIVES INDULGENCE TO ILLEGAL ACTIVITIES
Harihar Swarup - 2023-07-12 16:40
Thounaojam Brinda was a nightmare for Manipur’s drug cartel. She ventured into remote hills and destroyed hectares of poppy plantations, and arrested many VIPs who had links with the drug mafia. When she was the ASP of Narcotics and Affairs of Border, people affectionately called her Lady Singham, drawing inspiration from the movie Singham in which a courageous police officer fights corruption and injustice. After facing political interference, Bindra resigned and later contested in the assembly polls. She returned her gallantry award after the accused in a drug case was acquitted. Excerpts from an interview: