A drug epidemic is quietly tightening its grip around Imphal, a city recently ravaged by ethnic violence. The allure of the drugs now extends well beyond the youth of Manipur, and has ensnared even the government employees besides others. A report by Tehelka SIT
Upon arriving at Imphal airport, inquiries with local taxi drivers reveal insights into areas where drug-related issues are prevalent. When prodded, they mention neighbourhoods like North Aoc, Kshetrigao, Lilong and Top Heikhru Makhong. These areas, according to them, are a few hot spots of the city where drugs are easily available.
A taxi driver also shared another revealing insight with us: when you arrive at one of the aforementioned locations and request “Heroin number 4,” which is the popular term for the fourth-stage drug extracted from poppy, peddlers will try to ignore your query. However, the moment you signal with four fingers, they immediately understand that you are a regular customer and would promptly supply the drug. Sources familiar with the drug trade in Manipur informed Tehelka that these days, “Heroin number 4” is the most sought-after drug in Imphal.
Based on our investigative findings, it becomes evident that the allure of this drug extends well beyond the youth of Imphal, capital city of Manipur, which has been struck by ethnic violence during the last couple of months. Tehelka also unearthed a disconcerting reality: a substantial number of state government employees, including engineers, contractors, clerks, and worryingly teachers—who are entrusted with the responsibility of spreading awareness against drug abuse —are also falling victim to heroin addiction. Sources indicated that approximately 10-15 government employees sought treatment at a drug rehabilitation centre in Imphal. “We do not have precise figures for other rehabilitation centres in Manipur,” sources added.
The ongoing crisis in Manipur has unveiled one of the most significant non-traditional threats to India’s internal security, taking the form of narco-terrorism. The Government of Manipur’s “War on Drugs” has laid bare the presence of a formidable drug cartel and their pervasive influence on the social and political fabric of Manipur.
During the investigations, we learnt that drugs have made deep inroads into Manipur society. Not only youth and those working in private firms are buying, using and selling drugs, but even the state government employees, including teachers — who shoulder the responsibility of shaping the future of our country — are not immune to drug use either.
