Manipur govt launches massive drive against large-scale illegal poppy cultivation

Manipur government has launched a massive drive against large-scale illegal poppy cultivation.

A total of 703 people including five chiefs of hill villages have been arrested and over 400 acres poppy fields destroyed.

In Ukhrul, Senapati, Kangpokpi, Kamjong, Churachandpur and Tengnoupal – poppy cultivation is a major concern.

Around 18,000 acres of illicit poppy, cultivated were destroyed by law enforcing agencies including the Manipur Police between 2017 and 2022.

Singh said that Poppy farmers who surrendered voluntarily would be exempted from police cases but added that legal action would be taken against those encouraging and supporting its cultivation.