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The recent violence in Manipur, a state in Northeast India, has been linked to the region's thriving drug economy and the influence of Christianity, according to top intelligence sources cited by CNN-News18. This revelation sheds light on the complex and interwoven factors driving the unrest in the state. The sources highlight a significant parallel economy fueled by drug trafficking, with an estimated value of Rs 60,000 crore, exceeding the state's budget of Rs 35,000 crore. This illegal trade is allegedly linked to the notorious Golden Triangle drug cartel, encompassing Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand, which has extended its reach into Manipur.
The Golden Triangle, notorious for its opium and poppy cultivation, has become a source of methamphetamine, ketamine, and other synthetic drugs that are trafficked globally. Manipur, situated near the tri-junction of key opium-producing regions in Myanmar, serves as a strategic transit point for these illicit substances. The drug cartel's operations in Manipur are facilitated by the state's geographical features, including hills and forests, which provide cover for their activities. Chinese businessmen are alleged to be involved in paying local residents in both Manipur and Myanmar to secure safe havens for their operations, enabling them to further distribute drugs across India.
The intelligence sources also point to the role of Christianity in the conflict, specifically the support it provides to the Kuki community. The sources claim that the Kukis, who are predominantly Christian, receive substantial support from the Christian world, including international organizations. This support extends beyond spiritual guidance, as evidenced by the intervention of a senior Christian lawyer who, defying his usual high fees, offered free legal representation to three Kukis arrested in a court case. This highlights the strong influence of the Christian community on the Kuki population and its potential impact on the ongoing violence.
Furthermore, the article emphasizes the sophisticated methods employed by militants in the conflict, including the use of drones. Intelligence agencies had flagged the potential for drone attacks as early as June, leading to the confiscation of drone batteries by Assam police. The militants' access to and proficiency in drone technology are attributed to their close ties with the Assam Rifles, with some cadres being former members of the force. The combination of drug trafficking, Christian influence, and sophisticated weaponry underscores the multi-faceted nature of the conflict in Manipur.
The article's revelation of the drug economy and Christian influence as key drivers of the violence in Manipur offers a critical insight into the complexities of the conflict. This information is crucial for policymakers and security forces in developing effective strategies to address the multifaceted challenges facing the state. The article also highlights the need for a comprehensive approach that considers the interplay of various factors, including economic disparities, cultural identities, and transnational criminal networks, in order to achieve lasting peace and stability in Manipur.
Source: Manipur Violence Linked to 'Drug Economy', 'Christian World', Intel Sources Tell News18