Patwaris Asked to Report Drug Peddlers to SDMs: DC Shimla

Shimla, May 8: Deputy Commissioner Shimla Anupam Kashyap directed patwaris to submit reports regarding people involved in the drug trade to concerned SDMs to ensure strict monitoring and action against properties acquired through narcotics-related activities.

The directions were issued during the district-level monthly NCORD meeting chaired by the Deputy Commissioner on Thursday. Officials from the administration and police reviewed anti-drug awareness programmes and enforcement activities carried out during the past month.

The Deputy Commissioner said the district police were working effectively against drug trafficking and that the ongoing campaign had created fear among drug peddlers operating from neighbouring states. He instructed revenue and other departments to provide timely information for investigations related to properties linked with narcotics cases.

Special emphasis was also laid on maintaining records of anti-drug awareness activities and spreading awareness about the “Drug Free Himachal” mobile application among school and college students.

During the meeting, officials directed the Excise Department to keep strict vigil on illegal liquor trade and stocking during the Panchayati Raj elections. Authorities also discussed strengthening coordination among departments to work towards a drug-free society.

Superintendent of Police Gaurav Singh said strict action was being taken against drug traffickers and interstate narcotics networks were being busted regularly. He stressed the need for faster financial investigations in NDPS cases with support from the Revenue Department.

The Education Department informed the meeting that all schools in the district would be screened over the next month as part of efforts to make educational institutions TB-free.