Independent Anti-Narcotics Units Established in Police Stations: CM & Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis

Fadnavis Asserts Zero Tolerance Policy Against Drugs in Legislative Council

Mumbai : Maharashtra Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis informed the Legislative Council today that independent Anti-Narcotics Units have been set up in police stations to tackle drug addiction among youth. These units are being specially trained, and a comprehensive mechanism—from testing to legal prosecution—is now in place to counter drug-related offenses. He further added that police are focusing particularly on school and college areas, and over 2,000 unauthorized roadside stalls in Mumbai have been dismantled as part of this effort.

Fadnavis was responding to a Calling Attention Motion raised under Rule 101 by MLC Bhai Jagtap regarding the growing drug menace. Opposition Leader Ambadas Danve and MLCs Shivajirao Garje, Sanjay Kenekar, Satej Patil, and Sanjay Khodke also posed supplementary questions.

The Chief Minister stated that the state has adopted a strict Zero Tolerance Policy against narcotics and that the fight is now more aggressive and inclusive. The government has taken a firm stance against police personnel found complicit in drug-related crimes—moving beyond suspensions to outright dismissals. In a recent case, hydro cannabis worth ₹21 crore was seized from two Indonesian nationals. Investigations also revealed that synthetic drugs were being produced in defunct chemical factories in the Vasai region, and action has been initiated against these sites.

Highlighting the growing threat of online drug sales, Fadnavis said the cyber police are actively monitoring social media platforms. Fifteen online marketplaces involved in drug transactions have been taken down, and criminal action has been initiated against those responsible. In a major breakthrough, accused individuals linked to an MD drug racket worth ₹250 crore have been arrested overseas through Interpol coordination. He stressed that both central and state agencies are working together in this battle.

The Chief Minister also mentioned legislative measures under consideration to amend existing laws, allowing drug offenders to be prosecuted not just under the NDPS Act but also under MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act). This will ensure stricter punishment for repeat offenders.

To prevent smuggling via ports, advanced scanning systems are being deployed at Gujarat and JNPT ports, and random inspections are underway.

Fadnavis emphasized that the anti-drug campaign must go beyond the police and Home Department—it requires a “Whole-of-Government Approach.” He called upon all relevant departments to collaborate. He also raised concerns over the glorification of drug use on OTT platforms, urging the Department of Cultural Affairs and the Directorate General of Information and Public Relations to engage with OTT platforms and web series producers to raise awareness and curb such content.

“Fighting drugs is not just a law enforcement duty—it is a collective responsibility,” said the Chief Minister.