SHIMLA (Tuesday, March 10, 2026) — Himachal Pradesh Police have arrested eight individuals and seized over 1.22 kg of charas and 7 grams of “chitta” (synthetic heroin) during the second phase of a massive statewide anti-drug campaign. The operation, which involved a high-intensity 24-hour drive, saw the deployment of a Special Task Force (STF) and local police across 176 strategic locations.
Phase 2: The 24-Hour Special Drive
The crackdown, carried out between Monday and Tuesday, was part of the state government’s intensified “Anti-Chitta Jan Andolan.”
- The Operation: Police and STF teams established joint nakas (checkpoints) at 176 identified locations based on intelligence inputs and inter-district coordination.
- Seizures: * Charas: 1.22 kg
- Chitta (Heroin): 7 grams
- Arrests: 8 persons were taken into custody across various districts.
- Coordination: The operation prioritized breaking the supply chain through real-time inter-district monitoring and the use of technical intelligence to track traffickers moving across internal borders.
The “Zero Tolerance” Mandate
The current phase of the campaign follows a high-level meeting led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward narcotics.
- Strict Action Against Personnel: In a significant move on March 9, the government dismissed 11 police personnel for their alleged involvement in the illicit drug trade, sending a stern warning that “no one is above the law.”
- Asset Seizures: Authorities are now conducting detailed investigations into the movable and immovable properties of habitual traffickers. Any assets acquired through drug proceeds are being slated for seizure.
- Public Participation: Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities via the 112 emergency helpline, with the government assuring absolute confidentiality for informants.
Impact and Statistics (2026)
Since the intensification of the anti-drug drive in November last year, the state has seen a significant increase in enforcement:
| Category | Count (as of Mar 2026) |
| PIT-NDPS Detentions | 96 habitual traffickers |
| NDPS Cases Registered | Over 1,300 (annually) |
| Confiscated Assets | Over ₹9 Crore (since 2024) |
| Dismissed Personnel | 11 (in 2026 alone) |
Sources
- Press Trust of India (PTI): “Himachal: 1.2 kg narcotics seized, 8 held during anti-drug campaign” (March 10, 2026)
- The Hindu: “Himachal Govt sacks 11 cops for involvement in drug trade” (March 9, 2026)
- The Indian Express: “Himachal Police’s Anti-Chitta Campaign: Eight more traffickers detained” (February 21, 2026)
- Hindustan Times: “Anti-drug drive intensified as 145 sites raided across Himachal” (March 2, 2026)
- ANI News: “Himachal CM flags off statewide anti-drug walkathon” (November 16, 2025)
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