NSCN clarifies poppy seed seizure

NSCN/GPRN-K (Khango-Vusshe) has issued a clarification following the seizure and disposal of over 500 kilograms of poppy seeds on June 20.
In a press release, the group’s MIP stated that the action was taken as part of its effort to curb illegal syndicates involved in transporting banned or unregulated substances. It said the Crime Monitoring Cell (CMC) acted on a tip-off that one Kiyeto Zhimomi, alias Kits Zhimomi of Mishikito village, was transporting poppy seeds, Burma teak, and suspected arms from Moreh to Chümoukedima under the guise of areca nut trade.
While only poppy seeds were recovered from the guarded storage facility, the seized items were destroyed in front of village authorities and media to prevent their circulation and potential misuse.
The NSCN clarified that poppy seeds are not directly classified as narcotic under Section 2 (xviii) of the NDPS Act, 1985. However, under Section 8(c) of the same Act, their possession is illegal unless licensed for medical or scientific use. Furthermore, legal procurement must be backed by sourcing from licensed opium cultivators under the supervision of the Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN).
In this case, over 1000 kilograms of poppy seeds were reportedly stored without any valid CBN documentation. Although the concerned entity held an FSSAI food license (No. 1192300300024), poppy seeds were not listed under the permitted product category, making the FSSAI license insufficient without proper CBN trade authorization.The group said the seizure was made in view of the inaction of relevant law enforcement agencies and reiterated that the step was preventive, not punitive, as no one was arrested or detained during the operation. NSCN stated it acted in the larger interest of community safety and anti-narcotic vigilance.