City police launch 100-day action plan to fight ganja menace

Multifaceted approach to dismantle supply chains and address demand
In a decisive effort to address the growing issue of ganja (cannabis) trafficking and use, the City Police Department, following Home Minister V. Anitha’s “zero tolerance” policy declaration, has unveiled a detailed 100-day action plan.
The plan adopts a multifaceted approach to dismantle supply chains and address demand. Law enforcement officials will collaborate with courier services, public transportation authorities (APSRTC, Railways), and educational institutions to intercept illegal transportation of ganja and other narcotic substances. Additionally, efforts will be focused on identifying and apprehending inter-State drug traffickers.
Commissioner of Police A. Ravi Shankar has instructed officers to conduct awareness programmes aimed at students, educating them about the serious legal ramifications of drug use as per the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Additionally, plans are underway for public awareness campaigns including rallies and marathons, encouraging active participation from youth.
To strengthen enforcement, a specialised unit will be formed to analyse call data records (CDRs) and bank statements of suspected individuals.
This unit will also track suspicious movements and maintain close surveillance on individuals with a history of NDPS offenses. Police will be particularly vigilant during “Mulakat” meetings, where remand prisoners booked under the NDPS Act can communicate with family members. Scrutiny of these interactions aims to disrupt potential criminal activity.
Efforts to tackle ganja smuggling via sea routes are being intensified through collaboration with various agencies and local fishermen. The city’s narcotics detection capabilities will also be bolstered by increasing the number of sniffer dogs, with budgetary allocations already secured.