Haryana witnesses 3,005 cases under NDPS Act, 4,523 arrests this year

Haryana Chief Secretary Vivek Joshi chaired the 9th meeting of the State-Level Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD) Committee here today to review the state's progress in tackling drug-related crimes and outlined strategies to strengthen anti-drug initiatives. Joshi highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach that combined enforcement, awareness and rehabilitation to address the growing challenge of drug abuse and trafficking in Haryana.

428 convicted; assets worth over Rs 52 cr seized

* The intensified crackdown has resulted in conviction of 428 individuals this year; properties worth Rs 52.72 crore have been forfeited

* Besides, 27 kg of heroin, 265 kg of charas, 8,520 kg of ganja, and over 10 lakh pharmaceutical drugs have been seized

Joshi called for the launch of a fortnight-long campaign in alignment with Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini’s vision of a "Nasha-Mukt Haryana". He suggested organising exhibitions and awareness programmes not only for school and college students but also for youth outside the education system to inform them about the dangers of substance abuse.

During the meeting, which included Deputy Commissioners and SSPs via videoconferencing, the Chief Secretary emphasised the need for regular inspections of drug de-addiction centres by local SDMs. He instructed officials to submit detailed reports within 10 days to ensure compliance with standards and improve accountability in the operation of these centers.

Director General, Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau,OP Singh highlighted significant progress in Haryana's fight against drug trafficking under the NDPS Act. Between January and November 2024, the state registered 3,005 cases, leading to the arrest of 4,523 individuals, including 819 accused of handling commercial quantities of drugs.

This intensified crackdown has also resulted in a higher conviction rate, with 428 individuals convicted this year — a substantial step toward ensuring legal accountability. Additionally, the state made notable drug seizures, including 27 kg of heroin, 265 kg of charas, 8,520 kg of ganja, and over 10 lakh pharmaceutical drugs. Financial networks of drug traffickers have also been disrupted, with properties worth Rs 52.72 crore seized or forfeited.