States » EastPosted at: Jun 27 2025 12:35AM


Narcotics cases increasing as drug laboratories have come up in Manipur: Official

Imphal, Jun 26 (UNI) Watham Basu Singh, SP Narcotics and Affairs of Border (NAB), today highlighted the alarming rise in drug-related issues in Manipur, driven by its proximity to the porous Indo-Myanmar border, which facilitates illicit trafficking.
He said that over the last nine years, 19 brown sugar manufacturing labs have been uncovered in the state, alongside the widespread misuse of pharmaceutical drugs and poppy cultivation in hill districts.
“The drug menace is a multi-faceted issue affecting wealth, health, character, peace, and lives. It leads to economic drain, environmental degradation, and brain drain, tarnishing the state’s image,” he stated.
He mentioned that over one lakh individuals in Manipur are substance users, underscoring the urgency of collective action.
He was speaking during the observance of “International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking”, organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Regional Office here at the Manipur Press Club. The event aimed to foster awareness and dialogue on the pressing issue of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

Watham Basu pointed to societal challenges such as a degraded value system, corrupt mindsets, and selfishness, which exacerbate the drug crisis.
He called for a shift in perspective, stating, “We are all police in ourselves. The inner voice must guide us to be the change first, practicing what we preach.” He advocated a comprehensive approach focusing on supply and demand reduction, prevention, awareness, and rehabilitation.
“To win the war against drugs, we need to fight battles on multiple fronts with consistency, focus, and teamwork,” he added.
The SP stressed on the importance of targeting youth through social programs, education, and knowledge dissemination to build self-belief and confidence.
“The universe itself is a university where we can learn by observing our surroundings. A movement involving all stakeholders is essential to translate education into action and create a drug-free Manipur,” he concluded.
Dr. Engam Pame, Director, PIB Imphal, emphasised the media’s pivotal role in shaping public discourse and spreading awareness about the devastating impacts of drug abuse.
He called for responsible reporting to educate communities and support the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan. He urged the media fraternity to act as a powerful tool for progress. It is essential that the press remains free from bias and upholds its duty to inform and educate the masses, he added.

Asem Bhakta, President, All Manipur working Journalists Union AMWJU, reiterated the need for journalists to amplify voices advocating for prevention and rehabilitation, fostering a collective movement against substance abuse.
The interactive session saw journalists engage in discussions on strategies to combat drug abuse, including addressing poppy cultivation, strengthening border security, and promoting alternative livelihoods. The workshop concluded with a call for sustained efforts, and to contribute to a drug-free society through informed reporting and community engagement. UNI NS SSP
Tags: #Narcotics cases increasing as drug laboratories have come up in Manipur: Official
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