Telangana's War on Drugs: Unprecedented Crackdown, Rising Convictions

Drug Abuse

Posted by AI on 2025-12-04 15:57:07 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-09 15:35:24

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In a significant escalation of Telangana's battle against illegal substances, the state's Excise and Prohibition Department has made remarkable strides in recent years, leaving a trail of record seizures and arrests in its wake. From 2021 to 2025, the department's relentless efforts resulted in a staggering 4,194 cases filed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, leading to the apprehension of 7,131 individuals and the confiscation of over 24 metric tons of ganja.

The crackdown, initiated under the directives of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, has seen Prohibition and Excise Commissioner C. Harikiran and Enforcement Director Shahnawaz Qasim lead a charge against drug networks. Their strategy has yielded impressive results, including the uprooting of 21,035 cannabis plants and the seizure of various synthetic drugs, such as MDMA, LSD, hash oil, cocaine, heroin, and opium. The operation also led to the impoundment of 1,824 vehicles allegedly used in drug-related activities.

This intensified campaign has translated into a notable increase in convictions, with 71 convictions recorded in excise-related cases since Telangana's formation. The conviction rate, at 3.23%, surpasses the police department's 2.29%, indicating a more efficient prosecution process. According to Excise Enforcement officials, this rise in convictions is a deterrent to drug offenders, attributed to improved procedural discipline in case preparation and documentation.

Director Qasim's statement underscores the importance of these convictions in the war on drugs: "Only when a crime is punished does it create fear in everyone to commit a crime." As Telangana's crackdown continues, the state's commitment to eradicating the drug menace sends a powerful message, promising a safer and healthier environment for its citizens.

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