Following Punjab, Himachal Pradesh Launches Major Offensive Against Drug Traffickers
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Synopsis
In a proactive move following Punjab's anti-drug campaign, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has mandated a vigorous crackdown on drug trafficking networks. A Special Task Force will be established to ensure stringent action against offenders, including government employees, as part of a comprehensive six-month plan.
Key Takeaways
- Formation of a Special Task Force to combat drug trafficking.
- Zero-tolerance policy towards drug-related offenses.
- Government employees involved in drug trade will face termination.
- Strengthening of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force.
- Mapping of drug peddlers and victims at the panchayat level.
Shimla, March 1 (NationPress) Just days after Punjab commenced its battle against drug-related offenses, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu announced on Saturday that the police will embark on an extensive operation to dismantle the drug trafficking network. This initiative will be executed in a mission mode over a period of six months, with the formation of a Special Task Force.
During a high-level meeting, Sukhu emphasized the need for decisive measures against drug peddlers.
He made it abundantly clear that no individual, including government employees, implicated in the drug trade would escape consequences.
Taking a strong stance against drug traffickers, he mandated strict repercussions for any government employees found complicit in illegal activities.
Without hesitation, he stated that government employees with solid evidence of involvement in drug smuggling would face termination from their positions. Sukhu insisted on the rigorous application of the PIT-NDPS Act to ensure severe action against drug dealers.
He questioned the officers, “What is causing the delay in processing the PIT-NDPS cases? Review all cases within one week and resolve them promptly.”
He reiterated that the government has embraced a zero-tolerance policy towards the drug crisis.
“The assets of drug peddlers and their affiliates must be seized,” he instructed, urging the Police Department to probe the bank accounts of the suspects.
He mentioned that the Anti-Narcotics Task Force would be bolstered, and an additional Special Task Force would be established to tackle the drug issue, led by a senior police official.
Reaffirming his dedication to safeguarding the youth's future, the Chief Minister announced that he would regularly oversee the anti-drug initiatives.
Sukhu also directed the police to conduct a mapping of drug peddlers and victims at the panchayat level, with a report due by March 15.
He indicated that panchayat representatives and nambardars would be enlisted in this fight. Sukhu further instructed increased scrutiny of pharmaceutical companies, promising that licenses would be revoked for those discovered to be illegally selling psychotropic drugs.
He asserted that a first information report (FIR) would be filed against such companies, and that license renewals would be prohibited.
