The state of Manipur has been plagued by extreme human rights abuses against drug users since the late 80s, when drug use became a social issue. The global health community agrees that addiction is a disease and should be treated like any other illness, with medical and psychological care. National programs, initiated by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, have taken significant steps to address this issue, including prevention, treatment, and care programs that adhere to specific principles. These programs even encompass rehabilitation, community strengthening, crisis response, and protection of users' rights.

However, despite the comprehensive response, the perception of addiction as a moral failing rather than a medical condition has resulted in harm to the user community. Over the years, various forms of rights violations have taken place under the guise of treatment and moral policing. Practices such as chaining, isolation, warning shots, public humiliation, forced confessions through media, physical harassment, and even death have become alarmingly common. Some non-state actors and anti-drug Civil Society Organizations have taken matters into their own hands, exacerbating the situation.