Himachal Govt Launches "Zero Tolerance" Drug Crackdown: 11 Cops Sacked, Assets Seized

DHARAMSHALA, Jan 14 — The Himachal Pradesh government has formally declared a "zero-tolerance" policy against drug trafficking, launching a multi-pronged crackdown that targets offenders regardless of their social or official status.

State Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, addressing a press conference on Tuesday, warned that the government is intensifying its campaign to root out the "chitta" (synthetic drug) menace. He emphasized that the law will apply equally to all, a stance validated by the recent dismissal of 11 police personnel found involved in drug trafficking rings.

Strict Action Against Officials

Pathania highlighted that the government is purging its own ranks as part of the cleanup. "Action is not limited to arrests alone," he stated. Strict departmental and legal proceedings are being initiated against government employees involved in the trade. The 11 dismissed police personnel were terminated from service immediately after their involvement was confirmed, sending a stern message to the state's administrative machinery.

Asset Seizure Under PIT-NDPS Act

The government is also hitting traffickers financially. Pathania revealed that the PIT-NDPS Act, implemented in the state in 2024 to tighten the noose around drug networks, is being used aggressively.

Under this act, authorities have so far acted on 66 cases, confiscating illegally acquired assets worth over Rs 60 crore. These seizures include properties purchased with drug money and government land that had been encroached upon by traffickers.

Public Incentives and Confidentiality

To strengthen public participation, the government has rolled out a lucrative reward scheme for credible information:

  • Rs 10,000 for information on up to 2 grams of chitta.

  • Rs 10 Lakh for seizures exceeding one kilogram.

Pathania added that the 112 emergency helpline has been designated as the primary channel for sharing drug-related tips. He assured the public that the identity of all informers would be kept strictly confidential.

Calling the fight against drugs a "collective responsibility," Pathania appealed to parents, youth, and civil society to actively support the campaign and help transform Himachal Pradesh into a drug-free state.