Himachal Pradesh to Establish Special Task Force to Tackle Drug Abuse and Organized Crime.
Shimla:
In a decisive move to combat the growing menace of drug abuse and organized crime, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced the formation of a Special Task Force (STF) aimed at tackling these critical issues head-on. The STF will be led by an Additional Director General of Police or Inspector General of Police and will be crucial in the state’s efforts to combat drug trafficking and foster a drug-free, healthier society.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted that drug abuse has become a global epidemic that requires aggressive action. He pointed out that the state government has already enacted several laws to curb drug trafficking, including provisions that allow for the confiscation of properties of those involved in the illegal trade.
The STF will be a highly specialized unit, featuring a dedicated commando force trained in anti-narcotics operations and organized crime management. This training will be carried out in collaboration with the Narcotics Control Bureau. Approximately half of the STF personnel will be specifically recruited for this task, while the remaining officers will be sourced from the existing police force.
Key objectives of the STF include dismantling drug trafficking networks, cracking down on drug kingpins, disrupting organized gangs, and strengthening intelligence-gathering capabilities. The STF will also enhance forensic protocols and carry out coordinated raids to seize illicit assets tied to the drug trade. It will have the authority to implement preventive detention of habitual offenders.
In addition to law enforcement efforts, the government plans to focus on rehabilitation over punitive action. Expanding access to addiction treatment and rehabilitation programs will be a central aspect of the strategy. The Chief Minister emphasized that community engagement would be boosted through initiatives like the “Him Veer” program and “Him Dost,” as well as awareness campaigns in schools and colleges. The state also plans to establish special courts to expedite the adjudication of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) cases and streamline investigations and prosecutions.
The STF will operate in three strategic zones, with its headquarters in Shimla. Each zone will be led by a Superintendent of Police and will oversee operations in Dharamshala, Parwanoo, and Mandi. To ensure effective operations, the STF will submit progress reports to the state government every two weeks for evaluation and strategic adjustments.
This initiative marks a bold step toward dismantling the drug trade and ensuring a safer, drug-free Himachal Pradesh, reinforcing the government’s commitment to both public health and public safety.
