Four militants held for extortion activities in Manipur

The recent apprehension of four militants involved in extortion and the destruction of 65 acres of illicit poppy cultivation in Manipur's Kangpokpi and Churachandpur districts bring to the forefront India's persistent internal security challenges in the North-Eastern region. This incident is not an isolated event but a stark reminder of the complex interplay between insurgency, drug trafficking, and socio-economic vulnerabilities that plague the region, demanding a comprehensive understanding for competitive exam aspirants.

To truly grasp the significance, we must delve into the background context. Manipur, like many other North-Eastern states, has a long history of insurgency, stemming from ethno-nationalistic aspirations, demands for greater autonomy, and grievances against perceived neglect by the central government. Various militant groups, both Meitei and Naga, have operated in the state for decades, often resorting to extortion, kidnappings, and violence to fund their activities and assert control. This volatile environment has, unfortunately, created fertile ground for illicit activities, with drug trafficking emerging as a major revenue stream for these groups.

The geographical proximity of Manipur to the 'Golden Triangle' – the notorious opium-producing region encompassing parts of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand – makes it a critical transit point and, increasingly, a cultivation hub for narcotics. Opium poppy cultivation, as highlighted by the destruction in Kangpokpi and Churachandpur, is often driven by economic desperation among local communities, who are lured by the promise of quick money in areas lacking alternative livelihood opportunities. The proceeds from drug trade are then channelled to fund militant operations, procure weapons, and sustain their networks, creating a dangerous nexus between insurgency and narcotics.

Key stakeholders in this complex scenario include the **Indian security forces**, comprising the Indian Army, Assam Rifles, and Manipur Police, who are at the forefront of counter-insurgency and anti-drug operations. Their role is crucial in maintaining law and order, conducting intelligence-led operations, and destroying illicit cultivation. The **militant groups** themselves are significant stakeholders, whose activities disrupt peace and development. The **local population**, particularly in remote and underdeveloped areas, often finds itself caught between the militants and security forces, sometimes coerced into poppy cultivation or providing support to insurgents. Finally, the **Government of India** and the **Manipur State Government** are vital in formulating policies, implementing development schemes, and strengthening law enforcement to address the root causes of both militancy and drug trafficking.

This situation holds immense significance for India. Firstly, it poses a direct threat to **internal security and national integrity**. Unchecked insurgency and drug trade undermine the rule of law, destabilize the region, and can have spillover effects on other parts of the country. Secondly, there are significant **economic implications**. The illicit economy diverts resources, hinders legitimate development, and leads to widespread corruption. The cost of maintaining security forces and conducting operations is also substantial. Socially, the proliferation of drugs leads to widespread addiction, particularly among the youth, creating a public health crisis and impacting human capital development. This also fuels radicalization and a cycle of violence.

Historically, the North-East has been a region of strategic importance due to its international borders. The challenges of insurgency and drug trafficking have evolved over time, with the drug trade becoming an increasingly dominant funding mechanism for militant groups since the 1980s. Government initiatives like the 'Act East Policy' aim to integrate the region economically with Southeast Asia, but such progress is hampered by persistent internal security issues.

From a constitutional and legal perspective, several provisions are relevant. **Law and order** primarily falls under the **State List** (Schedule VII of the Constitution), meaning the Manipur Police are crucial. However, defence and national security are Union subjects. The **Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985**, is the principal legislation against drug trafficking, empowering law enforcement agencies to combat illicit cultivation, production, and trade. The **Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967**, is frequently invoked against militant groups for their anti-national activities. The presence of the **Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958**, in certain 'disturbed areas' of Manipur also grants special powers to security forces, though it remains a contentious issue.

Looking ahead, the future implications are critical. Continued efforts against militancy and drug trafficking will require a multi-pronged approach. This includes enhanced intelligence gathering, stricter border management, robust enforcement of laws like NDPS and UAPA, and crucially, accelerated socio-economic development. The Manipur government's 'War on Drugs' campaign is a positive step, but sustainable alternative livelihood programs for poppy cultivators, educational initiatives to prevent drug abuse, and rehabilitation centres are equally vital. Addressing the root causes of insurgency through dialogue and political solutions, while simultaneously choking their financial lifelines, is paramount for ensuring long-term peace and stability in Manipur and the broader North-Eastern region. Failure to do so risks further entrenching the nexus, exacerbating human suffering, and undermining India's strategic interests.