Maharashtra Govt Plans Crackdown On Drug Menace; CM Devendra Fadnavis Announces Special Drive, Legal Reforms

Mumbai: To deliver a blow to the drug menace, the state government is mulling several moves, including lowering the age of juveniles in drug-related cases, a special narcotics drive and preparing standard operating procedures (SOP) for handling foreigners like Nigerians involved in drug trafficking.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis Makes The Announcement

CM Devendra Fadnavis made the announcement in the assembly on Monday, after MLA Vilas Bhumre from Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar moved a calling attention motion on the issue. The latter's concerns were echoed by Sena (UBT) MLA Varun Sardesai. Bhumre expressed grave concern over the easy availability of drugs in his constituency, stating that MD, ketamin and even synthetic drugs were being openly sold.

Similarly, Sardesai, pointed out that several densely populated slum areas in Bandra East had become hotbeds for open drug peddling. He alleged that police often hesitate to enter these congested areas. “These (Nigerian) accused often commit another minor crime to avoid deportation, which delays justice and complicates their legal status,” Sardesai said.

Fadnavis assured that a special drive will be carried out in the Behrampada, Bharat Nagar, Golibar, and Naupada areas of Bandra East. He added that talks are on with the Centre regarding SOPs for handling accused foreigners. “The Centre has informed us that in cases involving minor offences, legal withdrawal of minor charges followed by immediate deportation could be considered,” the CM said.