IMPHAL: Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has said that Manipur's recurrent floods are a direct consequence of large-scale destruction of forests for illegal poppy cultivation.
The former CM alleged that armed militants are involved in these illicit activities, clearing vast stretches of forest land to plant poppy and questioned why the forest officials are not taking any action against these illegal activities.
Singh, who quit the Chief Ministerial post on February 9, four days before the President's Rule was imposed in the state due to prolonged ethnic violence.
Tagging a video, in a post on his X handle, he said: "This video recorded today shows why recurrent floods have taken place in the state. The footage shows poppy plantations at Kolten and Selsi Hill Ranges of IT- Road under T. Waichong Sub-division in Kangpokpi District."