Maharashtra Intensifies War On Narco-Mafia, Fadnavis Announces Structural Reforms

Maharashtra Chief Minister and Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday announced a sweeping set of institutional reforms aimed at intensifying the state’s crackdown on narcotics networks, describing the initiative as a “war on the narco-mafia” and reaffirming a zero-tolerance approach towards drug trafficking.

Speaking during the Question Hour in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Fadnavis cited the recent arrest of transnational drug lord Mohammad Salim Dola to justify the government’s use of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) in narcotics-related cases. He said drug syndicates now operate as structured financial networks that require stronger legal tools beyond conventional provisions under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

The Chief Minister said drug trafficking has evolved into a highly organised criminal ecosystem and cannot be treated as a minor law-and-order issue. He emphasised that the government’s response must involve coordinated action across multiple departments, rather than isolated enforcement efforts.

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As part of the new framework, Fadnavis announced the expansion of specialised anti-drug units and integration of testing facilities within police stations across urban and rural regions. He also directed civic bodies and police authorities to remove illegal structures and unauthorised establishments within a 100-metre radius of educational institutions to curb drug distribution networks targeting students.

The government has also strengthened digital monitoring mechanisms, with cyber units tasked to track encrypted communication channels and social media platforms allegedly used for drug trade. In addition, awareness campaigns will be conducted across thousands of educational campuses under the Education and Social Justice Departments. A citizen reward scheme has also been introduced to encourage confidential reporting of drug-related activities.

Fadnavis presented enforcement data showing that between January and April 2026, authorities registered 1,142 cases involving commercial quantities of narcotics and arrested 1,626 individuals. During the same period, drugs worth over ₹254 crore were seized, while thousands of consumption-related cases were also recorded. He further noted that narcotics worth ₹523 crore were destroyed in 2025 under ongoing enforcement operations.

The Opposition, however, raised concerns over alleged collusion between sections of the police force and drug traffickers, demanding stronger oversight and accountability. Responding to these allegations, Fadnavis asserted that strict disciplinary action is being taken against any personnel found guilty of corruption or complicity, including dismissal from service. He also announced the formation of a high-level committee to lead the “Drug-Free Mumbai” campaign, aimed at strengthening enforcement, improving coordination among agencies, and expanding public awareness initiatives across the state.

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