Growing number of poppy plants raises worry

The increase in the illegal cultivation of poppy or opium in the forests and remote areas of Sundargarh district and other parts of the state has raised concerns among the locals. Reports have surfaced, alleging the involvement of corrupt officials in this illicit activity. In response to this, the excise officials took action on Wednesday and destroyed a poppy plantation that spanned over 3 acres of forest land in the Gurundia police station area of Bonai sub-division in Sundargarh district. The estimated value of the seized crop is a staggering Rs 42 lakh. However, no arrests have been made so far. Despite repeated efforts by the police, excise, and forest officials, it seems that the illegal cultivation continues to thrive. According to observers, the reason behind this is that the officials responsible for monitoring these areas turn a blind eye to this issue. This is because these areas fall outside their jurisdiction, and they only participate in raids when called upon. However, the situation is quite different for the forest personnel. It is surprising how they fail to notice such illegal activities during their routine patrols. It has led to allegations of possible collusion between some forest officials and the opium mafia. However, when questioned, the officials in question have not responded to these allegations. Acting on a tip-off about opium farming in the Pankadihi-Jada area under Gurundia police limits, a joint team of police and excise officials conducted a raid on Wednesday morning. The operation was carried out in the presence of Gurundia's additional tehsildar, who acted as the magistrate. More than 42,000 poppy plants were destroyed, and it was discovered that they had matured and were close to bearing fruit. This is not the first time such an operation has been carried out. Earlier, a similar plantation over 5 acres had been destroyed in Koida, and two people were arrested. However, one of them managed to escape from custody, leading to the suspension of three police personnel. The Bonai district is facing a severe problem with the spread of illegal cultivation of poppy and opium. It is high time that strict measures are taken to curb this issue and bring the culprits to justice. The authorities must work together to put an end to this illegal activity and protect the forests and remote areas from further harm.