Khunti News: Villagers Voluntarily Destroy Eight Acres of Opium Cultivation

Khunti Takes a Stand Against Opium Cultivation

Khunti, January 03, 2025: In a remarkable initiative led by the residents of Chamartoli village in Jharkhand’s Khunti district, eight acres of opium cultivation were voluntarily destroyed on Friday. This decisive action marks a significant step in the fight against illegal opium farming in the region, which has long been a source of concern for local authorities and communities.

Murhu Panchayat Leads the Way

The Murhu Sadar Panchayat, under the leadership of Mukhiya Jyoti Dhoharai, spearheaded this initiative. With the support of Gram Pradhan Bale Pahan and Bablu Khan, efforts were made over the course of a week to mobilize villagers. Their collaboration with the district administration and police culminated in a village meeting where the proposal to eradicate opium fields was unanimously supported.

Mukhiya Jyoti Dhoharai emphasized the harmful impact of opium cultivation on society and the environment. She explained the long-term consequences to villagers, encouraging them to shift away from the practice for the betterment of future generations. Her leadership inspired the community to act collectively.

Role of District Administration and Police

Khunti SDPO Varun Kumar Rajak and Circle Officer Shankar Kumar Vidyarthi were pivotal in facilitating the operation. During the village meeting, SDPO Rajak highlighted how Khunti’s reputation has been tarnished by widespread opium farming. He praised the villagers’ proactive efforts, describing the initiative as a “positive step toward an opium-free Khunti.”

The administration reassured villagers that no legal action would be taken against those who voluntarily destroyed their opium fields. This assurance played a crucial role in encouraging participation. Furthermore, the district administration announced plans to reward villages that actively contribute to the eradication of opium cultivation.

Satellite Technology Aids Detection

Circle Officer Vidyarthi revealed that modern satellite technology is being used to identify areas under opium cultivation. This technological advancement allows authorities to pinpoint affected regions and take swift action. He added that over 400 FIRs have been filed in Khunti district so far, underscoring the administration’s commitment to eliminating illegal farming practices.

Villagers Take Matters Into Their Own Hands

After the administrative and police officials departed, villagers gathered to execute the plan. With the help of tractors, they uprooted and destroyed opium crops spread across eight acres of land. This collective effort not only symbolizes the community’s determination to address the issue but also sets an example for other villages in the region.

A Step Toward an Opium-Free Khunti

The initiative in Chamartoli is part of a broader movement to make Khunti an opium-free district. As awareness campaigns and community-driven actions gain momentum, authorities hope to see similar efforts replicated across Jharkhand. The collaboration between villagers, local leaders and government officials demonstrates the power of collective action in tackling deep-rooted societal issues.

This groundbreaking effort highlights the importance of grassroots involvement in combating illegal activities and underscores the potential for positive change when communities unite for a common cause.