NCB and states destroy 1.4 lakh kg of drugs worth ₹2,378 crore
In a significant operation led by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and various states, 1.4 lakh kg of drugs valued at Rs 2,378 crore were destroyed on Monday. Home Minister Amit Shah presided over the operation virtually from Delhi. This latest round brings the total quantity of drugs destroyed in the past year to 10 lakh kg, with a value of Rs 12,000 crore, according to officials.
During the operation, Shah emphasized the importance of investigating the financial aspects of drug cartels. He urged states to collaborate with the Enforcement Directorate and refer cases to the central agency. Shah stated, Until we conduct financial investigations of drug traffickers and break their chain, our campaign will not be successful. He also stressed the need for harsher punishments as a deterrent and advocated increasing the confiscation of assets belonging to those involved in the illicit drug trade. Shah added that public shaming or boycotting such individuals would discourage others from joining the drug trade. He further emphasized the need to be ruthless in confiscating assets from drug offenders.
Shah revealed that between 2006 and 2013, a total of 1,250 cases were registered, while between 2014 and 2023, 3,700 cases were registered, representing an increase of nearly 300%. The quantity of drugs seized also saw a significant increase from 1.52 lakh kg to 3.94 lakh kg during the same periods. Additionally, the number of arrests rose from 1,360 to 5,650. The value of drugs destroyed between 2006 and 2013 amounted to Rs 5,900 crore, while between 2014 and 2023, drugs worth Rs 18,100 crore were seized and destroyed.
Speaking at the regional conference on ‘Drug Trafficking and National Security’ in Delhi, Shah highlighted that drug trafficking not only harms future generations but also poses a threat to national security. He referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goal of achieving a drug-free India by the time the country celebrates its centenary of independence and urged the central and state governments to work together to ensure that no youth falls victim to drug addiction. Shah emphasized the need for equal attention to be given to drug detection, disrupting the network, apprehending culprits, and providing rehabilitation for addicts.
Shah also addressed the international image of India in relation to drugs, stating that the terms ‘Golden Triangle’ and ‘Golden Crescent’ have been replaced by ‘Death Triangle’ and ‘Death Crescent’. He recommended a shift in mindset where those who consume drugs are viewed as victims, while those engaged in the drug trade are treated as culprits. Shah stressed the importance of systems that focus on bringing victims back to the right path rather than leaving them as permanent addicts.
The news of the successful operation underscores the government’s commitment to combatting the drug trade and protecting the nation’s future. By destroying large quantities of drugs and targeting the financial aspects of drug trafficking, the authorities aim to dismantle cartels and deter individuals from joining the illicit trade. The collaborative effort between the NCB, states, and the central agencies is crucial in achieving the desired outcome of a drug-free India. With increasing arrests and seizures, along with stringent punishments, it is hoped that the message will be clear: drug trafficking will not be tolerated.
