Mizoram Excise and Narcotics Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar raised concerns on Tuesday about the rise in drug smuggling within the state, attributing it in part to the ongoing ethnic violence in neighbouring Manipur.
Responding to a query during the ongoing budget session, Hmar explained that drugs are increasingly being smuggled from other countries through Mizoram into both Manipur and Tripura.
He pointed to the escalating violence in Manipur since May 2023, triggered by a 'Tribal Solidarity March' opposing the demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by the Meitei community.
This situation, according to the minister, has exacerbated the drug smuggling problem.
Hmar highlighted the efforts by the Mizoram Excise and Narcotics Department, which have resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of illegal substances since January, including:
- 15 kg of heroin
- 96.5 kg of methamphetamine tablets
- 238.6 kg of ganja
Furthermore, he made it clear that 1,211 individuals have been apprehended in connection with drug-related offenses since the beginning of the year.
Expressing grave concern, Hmar stressed the critical need for a unified approach to tackle the issue.
He stressed the necessity for collaboration between the government, NGOs, churches, and the general public to effectively combat drug trafficking and abuse.
While acknowledging a substantial decrease in "drug circulation or consumption at the local level" due to a collaborative effort by the government, churches, and civil society organizations, Hmar cautioned against complacency.
He revealed the tragic loss of 10 lives, including a woman, due to drug abuse since January, underlining the urgency of addressing this critical issue.
The rise in drug smuggling, linked to the unrest in Manipur, presents a significant challenge for Mizoram.
The minister's call for collective action serves as a reminder of the importance of a multi-pronged approach in effectively tackling this complex problem and protecting the well-being of the state's residents.
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