Strict Action Ordered Against Drug Trafficking and Sale in Chamba

62 cases registered and 88 accused arrested in 2026 up to August 30

Chamba, August 31, 2026: Deputy Commissioner Mukesh Repswal has directed officials to ensure strict action against individuals involved in the trafficking and sale of narcotic substances in the district. He also ordered action, as per law, against properties acquired through illegal activities.

Repswal issued the directions while chairing a meeting of the District-Level Narcotics Coordination Committee (NCORD) at the National Informatics Centre (NIC) video-conferencing room. He reviewed measures being undertaken by various departments to curb drug abuse and strengthen public awareness about its harmful effects.

The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned Sub-Divisional Magistrates, Deputy Superintendents of Police and other officials to strictly enforce provisions of the COTPA Act and take effective action against the illegal sale of tobacco products and smoking in public places. He also called for action against the illegal sale of chewing tobacco products.

He directed the authorities to take necessary action against unqualified medical practitioners and instructed the District Ayush Officer to act against those selling Ayurvedic medicines without authorisation.

Repswal further stressed effective utilisation of trained personnel involved in awareness activities and directed departments to make better use of available human resources for public outreach.

The meeting also decided to install digital screens at suitable locations in the major tourist destinations of Banikhet and Dalhousie to spread awareness about drug abuse and related issues.

According to police data, 62 cases related to narcotic trafficking and illegal drug trade were registered in Chamba district between January 1 and August 30, 2026, with 88 persons arrested.

During this period, police seized 17.516 kg of charas, leading to the arrest of 30 persons, while 548.8 grams of heroin (chitta) was recovered and 57 persons were arrested in connection with these cases.

In cases involving chitta, police also recovered 216.900 grams of gold, 479 grams of silver, two iPhones and ₹64,640 in cash.

Additionally, police seized 2.169 kg of poppy husk and arrested one person, while 868 poppy plants were also recovered during the ongoing enforcement drive.