COCOMI’s memorandum to the Defense Minister outlined several national security threats, including the leakage of sensitive information to foreign entities and alterations in official records that jeopardize national interests. These issues necessitate immediate attention and intervention from both the central and state governments. The assurance of IAF support to combat illegal poppy cultivation underscores the central government’s determination to address these pressing matters.
By Kaoba Angomcha
In a significant and timely development, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) recently disclosed that Defense Minister Rajnath Singh had assured that the Government of India would be deploying the Indian Air Force (IAF) planes to destroy poppy fields in Manipur upon request by the state government. This commitment apparently emerged during a meeting with a delegation from the Delhi Meetei Coordinating Committee (DMCC), acting as representatives of COCOMI. The delegation raised concerns about the escalating national security threat posed by narco-terrorism in the region.
COCOMI’s memorandum to the Defense Minister outlined several national security threats, including the leakage of sensitive information to foreign entities and alterations in official records that jeopardize national interests. These issues necessitate immediate attention and intervention from both the central and state governments. The assurance of IAF support to combat illegal poppy cultivation underscores the central government’s determination to address these pressing matters.
The problem of unlawful poppy and cannabis cultivation, linked to ongoing narco-terrorism activities, is of profound concern to Manipur and the entire nation. In this context, the central government’s commitment to employ the Indian Air Force (IAF) to address this problem is a welcome and urgently needed measure.
It is crucial to emphasize that the Manipur state government must now act proactively on this issue. While the central government has expressed its willingness to assist, the state government should take the lead in coordinating efforts to effectively combat illegal poppy and cannabis cultivation as part of its ‘War on Drugs’ initiatives. There is no room for delay on the part of the state government. Cooperation between the two levels of government is vital to achieving meaningful results promptly, particularly given the current ethnic crisis fueled by these illegal drug plantations.
Furthermore, COCOMI’s call for urgent action extends beyond the central and state governments. COCOMI underscores the urgency of addressing this issue promptly. With its extensive network and influence, COCOMI has a pivotal role to play in mobilizing public support and exerting pressure on the state government to take swift action. The involvement of civil society organizations like COCOMI can serve as a catalyst for change and ensure that the central government’s commitments translate into tangible actions on the ground.
Moreover, COCOMI’s concerns regarding the conduct of security forces, unequal treatment of various communities, and the imperative to address narco-terrorism and illegal immigration are all valid points requiring immediate attention. It is imperative that the central and state governments, in collaboration with all stakeholders, including COCOMI, work together comprehensively to address these issues.
In conclusion, the central government’s commitment to deploy the IAF to eradicate illegal poppy cultivation in Manipur represents a critical step in safeguarding the region’s security and prosperity. It is imperative to eliminate the social vices that have persisted for far too long. This commitment should also extend to the eradication of illicit cannabis plantations and be met with swift, coordinated action by the Manipur state government, as well as proactive engagement by civil society organizations and stakeholders. The time for action is now, and the security and well-being of Manipur’s citizens depend on it.