Imphal: The Joint Tribe Council (JTC) and Joint Tribe Students’ Association (JTSA) on behalf of the four cognate tribes of Inpui, Liangmai, Rongmei and Zeme on Thursday submitted a declaration to chief minister N Biren Singh, in support of the state government’s ‘War on Drugs’ campaign by declaring ‘Drug and Poppy Free Zone’.
The declaration reads: “The Indigenous Four Cognate Tribes of Inpui, Laingmai, Rongmei and Zeme had never practiced poppy plantation nor been involved with any kind of illegal drugs since time immemorial.”
The declaration further states that “following the sincere and righteous footsteps of our forefathers, the four Cognate Tribes of Input, Liangmai, Rongmei and Zeme reiterate our stand against illegal drugs and poppy plantation.”
“The Joint Tribes also resolve to continue preserving, conserving the unadulterated forests, its resources and give life a valuable living.”
Addressing the media, CM Biren Singh appreciated the Joint Tribe Council and Joint Tribe Students’ Association (JTSA) for giving support to the government at all times, particularly in its fight against drugs, in the wider interest of the people.
Stressing on the harmful effect of poppy cultivation on the environment, including deforestation, degradation of soil fertility and pollution of water, the CM appealed to all those carrying out drugs-related activities to stop and come out in support of the ‘War on Drugs’ campaign.
He added that mass campaigns were started by meeting locals of different villages and provide awareness to the people about the ill effects of poppy plantation.
The CM also informed a meeting of concerned officials from different departments, including Forest and Police about the encroachment of land at Reserve Forest and Protected Forest areas of the state. He said the district forest officers (DFOs) have been instructed to ensure that no deforestation activities are carried out at Reserved and Protected Forest. Further, DFOs are advised to take action against any person involved in poppy plantation by registering FIR and also to start carrying out afforestation activities.
On reports of subletting of government quarters by some employees who had been allocated quarters in their names, the CM demanded an immediate stop to such activities while warning of strict action against government employees who sublet their quarters. He also warned officials against misuse of flag post vehicles in carrying out illegal activities.
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