Deputy Commissioner Shimla Anupam Kashyap chaired the district-level monthly NCORD (Narco Coordination Committee) meeting on Monday through video conferencing, reviewing ongoing efforts against drug abuse and trafficking across the district.
During the meeting, all Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) presented detailed reports on anti-drug awareness programs and enforcement actions carried out over the past month.
Strict Monitoring of Drug Trafficking Ordered
Addressing officials, the Deputy Commissioner praised the district police for their effective action against narcotics and highlighted the recent busting of a major drug trafficking network. He directed patwaris to submit reports identifying individuals involved in drug trade activities to SDMs for close monitoring.
He emphasized that strict scrutiny of properties acquired through illegal drug earnings must be ensured so that appropriate legal action can be initiated.
Kashyap added that the district police’s efforts against “chitta” (synthetic drugs) have been commendable. He instructed the Revenue Department and other agencies to provide timely information to assist police investigations related to assets owned by drug traffickers.
Awareness Campaigns and Digital Reporting
Officials were directed to maintain proper records of anti-drug awareness activities. The Deputy Commissioner also announced that students in schools and colleges will be educated about the Drug-Free Himachal mobile application, encouraging citizens to report drug-related activities confidentially.
The app ensures complete anonymity of informants, making it easier for residents to share information without fear.
Special Vigilance Ahead of Panchayat Elections
With Panchayati Raj elections approaching, the Excise Department has been instructed to maintain strict vigilance over illegal liquor trade and stockpiling. Departments were asked to coordinate closely with stakeholders to strengthen efforts toward building a drug-free society until the elections conclude.
The DC also directed SDMs to establish anti-drug committees in areas where such bodies have not yet been formed.
Role of NCORD Committee
The NCORD committee works to address drug abuse through both social awareness and legal enforcement. Its primary objectives include monitoring drug trafficking, accelerating action against suppliers, spreading awareness among youth, and strengthening rehabilitation and treatment facilities.
Regular reviews of the drug situation help authorities implement timely preventive measures while encouraging young people toward a healthy lifestyle.
Police Action and Financial Investigations
Senior Superintendent of Police Gaurav Singh stated that police are taking strict action against drug traffickers and accelerating investigations under the NDPS Act. Several interstate drug networks have recently been exposed.
He noted that financial investigations in drug-related cases remain slow and stressed the importance of faster revenue department reports to enable confiscation of illegally acquired properties.
The Health Department has also been instructed to work toward reducing deaths caused by drug overdoses.
The meeting was attended virtually by ADM (Law & Order) Pankaj Sharma, SDM Rohru Dharmesh, SDM Dodra Kwar Kirti Chandel, along with other SDMs and DSPs.
