Odisha Police Destroy Over Rs 569 Crore Worth of Narcotics in Major Operation
In a significant move against drug trafficking, Odisha Police destroyed narcotics valued at over Rs 569 crore, marking a major achievement in their ongoing efforts to combat illicit drug trade.
A Major Strike Against the Drug Trade
In a bold demonstration of resolve, Odisha Police recently carried out a nation-wide operation to destroy over Rs 569 crore worth of narcotics, a move that has sent ripples across law enforcement circles and communities alike. The campaign, conducted under Operation Nasha Mukt Odisha, saw the incineration of nearly 108.90 tonnes of seized drugs, including ganja, brown sugar, and codeine-based cough syrup, in a coordinated effort by the Special Task Force (STF) of the Crime Branch. The operation, which ran from June 26 to July 10, has been hailed as a landmark step in the state's fight against drug trafficking, with police officials vowing to continue their push toward a drug-free Odisha. 'This operation is not just about destroying drugs; it's about dismantling networks that have for too long exploited the vulnerable,' said Director General of Police YB Khurania, underscoring the mission's broader societal impact.
Boudh: A District at the Center of the Action
Amid the state's wide-ranging efforts, Boudh district emerged as a key battleground. Known historically as the 'Land of the Buddha,' Boudh is home to ancient stupas, intricately carved sculptures, and the iconic Rameswar Temple, which stands as a cultural cornerstone. Yet, the same district is now a focal point in Odisha's modern war on drugs. Boudh police took the lead in the operation, destroying over 37,000 kg of ganja—more than any other district in the state. 'Boudh's strategic location along major trade routes has made it a transit hub for illicit drugs,' noted a senior police official. 'Our focus here has been to cut off supply chains that originate in neighboring states and flow into cities like Bhubaneswar and Rourkela.' The district's connection to the Dhokra metal casting tradition and the vibrant Danda Jatra festival contrasts sharply with the grim reality of drug trafficking—a reminder of the challenges facing a region rich in heritage.
The Scale of the Operation
The operation's magnitude was staggering, both in terms of physical quantity and monetary value. Police destroyed ganja worth approximately Rs 544.52 crore, brown sugar valued at Rs 24.8 crore, and 3,631 bottles of codeine-based cough syrup. The combined illicit market value of these items reached Rs 569.32 crore, a number that underscores the scale of the drug problem confronting Odisha. The effort involved not just Boudh, but several other districts, including Kandhamal, which saw the destruction of 34,245 kg of ganja. The Special Task Force, along with units like the SRP Rourkela and SRP Cuttack, worked in tandem to meet and surpass the initial target of destroying 78,600 kg of ganja. 'This is a testament to the collaborative spirit of our police forces,' said Khurania. 'We are breaking down silos and ensuring that every district contributes to this mission.'
Legal and Strategic Implications
The operation was conducted under the provisions of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), which mandated a national pre-trial drug destruction drive. The initiative aims to expedite the disposal of seized narcotics, mitigate risks associated with prolonged storage, and ensure strict compliance with the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. This is not merely a procedural exercise, but a strategic move to prevent the re-circulation of drugs into society. 'The NDPS Act imposes stringent penalties for trafficking, but without proper disposal mechanisms, even the toughest laws are rendered ineffective,' explained a legal expert from Bhubaneswar. 'By conducting these operations transparently, Odisha is setting a benchmark for other states.'
Tapan Kumar Sahoo
District Correspondent, Boudh
Tapan Kumar Sahoo reports on Boudh district's education sector, road and infrastructure projects, and community affairs.
View all articles by Tapan →
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