Mumbai, June 23: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday announced that dedicated anti-drug units will be established in police stations across every district of the state as part of a comprehensive drive to curb drug trafficking, sale, and consumption.
Replying to a question raised by MLA Sunil Prabhu during the Question Hour in the Legislative Assembly, Fadnavis said drug production, trafficking, and abuse have emerged as a serious challenge not only for Maharashtra but for the entire country. He stated that the state government has adopted a “Whole of Government Approach” in coordination with various departments to tackle illegal cultivation, manufacturing, transportation, trade, and consumption of narcotic substances.
The Chief Minister said extensive awareness campaigns are being conducted across Maharashtra, including the “Drug-Free Mumbai” initiative. The state has also suggested amendments to the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act to the Central Government.
Under the government’s zero-tolerance policy, police personnel found guilty under the NDPS Act will face dismissal from service. At the same time, officers and staff demonstrating outstanding performance in anti-drug operations will be rewarded through promotions, incentives, and special postings.
Fadnavis informed the House that narcotics worth ₹523.17 crore were destroyed by the Anti-Narcotics Task Force and police agencies in 2025. Between January and April 2026, authorities registered 1,142 cases related to drug possession, arrested 1,626 accused, and seized narcotics worth ₹254.53 crore. Additionally, 3,199 cases were registered against drug consumption during the same period.
By the end of May 2026, police had registered 528 cases against drug peddlers, arresting 655 accused. Cases were also filed against 2,855 drug users, resulting in 2,459 arrests.
The Chief Minister further stated that drug trafficking accused Salim Dola had been extradited from abroad and brought to India, underscoring the government’s commitment to taking strict action against narcotics networks. He clarified that all seized drugs are destroyed completely, eliminating the possibility of them re-entering the market.
Maharashtra currently operates seven Anti-Narcotics Task Force units, and the government plans to expand them by creating additional posts. A reward scheme for citizens providing information about drug-related activities will also be introduced while ensuring the confidentiality of informants.
To support rehabilitation efforts, the government will direct the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai to provide land for special rehabilitation centres for drug addicts. Plans are also underway to establish de-addiction centres in every district through the Health and Social Justice Departments.
Fadnavis added that the government is seriously concerned about the glorification of drug use in films and other media and will take necessary measures to address the issue.
