Maharashtra Govt Gears Up for Crackdown on Drug Menace; CM Fadnavis Announces Special Drive, Legal Reforms

Mumbai, July 15: In a bid to combat the growing drug menace in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday announced a series of aggressive measures, including legal reforms, targeted action drives, and coordination with the Centre on deportation policies. The announcement came in the Legislative Assembly following a heated debate on the worsening drug situation across the state.

The discussion was initiated by MLA Vilas Bhumre from Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, who raised a calling attention motion highlighting the rampant sale of drugs such as MD, ketamine, and synthetic substances in his constituency. Supporting Bhumre’s concerns, Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Varun Sardesai also raised alarm over the rise in drug peddling in densely populated slum clusters in Bandra East, including Behrampada, Bharat Nagar, Golibar, and Naupada.

CM Fadnavis acknowledged the gravity of the situation and announced a special anti-narcotics drive targeting the affected areas. He further revealed that the state government is considering lowering the age threshold for juveniles in drug-related offences, in a bid to deter youth involvement in the illegal trade.

One of the key announcements involved drafting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for dealing with foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians, accused of drug trafficking. Addressing the concerns raised by Sardesai regarding legal loopholes exploited by foreign offenders, the CM stated, “Talks are underway with the Centre to enable swift deportation of foreign nationals involved in minor crimes, by facilitating the withdrawal of lesser charges to avoid delays in justice.”

He assured the House that both state and central agencies would work in close coordination to ensure that drug hotspots are closely monitored and necessary reforms are implemented to strengthen the legal framework against narcotics.

The move has been welcomed by several legislators, who stressed the need for sustained enforcement and community outreach to curb drug abuse, especially among the youth.

With these initiatives, the Maharashtra government aims to send a strong message against drug trafficking and restore public confidence in law enforcement.