HRCM calls for harsher punishment to deal with smuggling of banned items
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, May 12 2020: Human Rights Council Manipur (HRCM) has urged the State and Central Government to introduce a new legislation or amend the existing law to effectively deal with illegal smuggling and trading which are being carried out even during the curfew and lockdown.

HRCM in a press statement said that many people of the State and those stranded at different locations of the country are facing a very hard time but some are indulging in activities that could ruin or destroy a society.

While highlighting the incidents of betel leaves row and spate of seizures of illegal items including narcotic substances, cigarettes etc along Imphal-Moreh National Highway and in parts of Ukhrul and other districts along the Indo-Myanmar border by police and other law enforcing agencies, HRCM urged all concerned to come up with a new and comprehensive legislation or amend the existing laws to ensure that such activities are curbed to the maximum level and those involved are awarded befitting punishment.

HRCM also expressed concerned at how these illegal items and narcotics substances worth lakhs and crores are being smuggled from Myanmar and other States of India when every border has been sealed and scores of security personnel are put up at every nook and corner to enforce the lockdown.

It went on to ask as to how the Government would ensure safety of the people and fight COVID-19 transmission, when even these activities could not be contained It is high time for the State Government to consult with legal experts and other stake holders to come out with more stringent law or ordinance to deal with these offenders, HRCM added.

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