Mumbai, March 17 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, announced on Tuesday in the state Assembly that the government is taking decisive measures to tackle the escalating drug networks in major urban areas across Maharashtra.

During the Question Hour, the Chief Minister revealed that a 'Dynamic Immigration System' will be initiated to identify foreign nationals who are residing illegally after their visas have lapsed and are involved in drug trafficking.

In response to a question posed by Vasai BJP MLA Sneha Dube Pandit concerning narcotics sales in the state, Chief Minister Fadnavis stated, “Numerous Nigerian nationals enter India under educational or medical visas. Once their visas expire, they intentionally register minor criminal cases against themselves. They exploit the legal process, as deportation cannot occur until these cases are resolved. Following directives from the Central government, we are now in the process of withdrawing such minor cases to facilitate their immediate deportation.”

He also informed the House that thus far, 68 Nigerian nationals have been deported, while 122 others are currently held in detention centers awaiting their deportation.

The Chief Minister emphasized that police forces have been instructed to verify the passports and visas of suspicious foreign nationals; those lacking valid documentation will be sent directly to detention facilities.

Moreover, Chief Minister Fadnavis mentioned that while the Immigration Department maintains records of all foreign nationals entering Mumbai, a new collaborative system between the Police and the Immigration Department will be put into place. This system will equip police with real-time information on individuals who are overstaying their visas.

Additionally, he announced that regulations will be established to prevent homeowners from renting properties to foreign nationals without valid passports and visas. Legal action will be pursued against landlords who harbor such illegal residents.

The state government is also set to launch an extensive public awareness campaign concerning these regulations.

To further dismantle drug syndicates, Chief Minister Fadnavis also mentioned that Police Commissioners have been directed to invoke the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against repeat offenders involved in drug trafficking.

“Instructions have been issued to extern criminals who meet the legal criteria. Raids will be executed on cafes and establishments where drug use is prevalent. The law will be amended to permanently revoke the licenses of hotels or venues that repeatedly breach regulations, rather than simply suspending them. Any police personnel found involved in drug sales will face immediate dismissal,” he added.

Furthermore, Chief Minister Fadnavis hinted that the state government is earnestly considering holding the leaders of local Crime Investigation Departments accountable, rather than solely penalizing junior staff.