Gujarat Authorities Seize Over Rs 27 Crore in Liquor and Drugs in Major Crackdown
In a significant enforcement operation, Gujarat's law enforcement agencies have confiscated Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) and narcotics with a combined value exceeding Rs 27 crore in the cities of Ahmedabad and Surat during the year 2025. The state government disclosed these details in a written reply presented to the Gujarat Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, shedding light on the ongoing efforts to combat illegal activities under the state's prohibition laws.
Detailed Seizure Figures from Ahmedabad and Surat
According to the official data shared by Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, who also oversees the Home portfolio, the seizures were substantial across both major urban centers. In Ahmedabad, enforcement teams seized IMFL worth Rs 10.71 crore and drugs valued at Rs 3.87 crore. Meanwhile, in Surat, the figures were even higher, with IMFL worth Rs 6.63 crore and narcotics valued at a staggering Rs 13.29 crore being confiscated. This brings the total seizure value to Rs 17.34 crore for liquor and Rs 17.16 crore for drugs, underscoring the scale of the crackdown.
Arrests and Disciplinary Actions Against Police Personnel
The government's response, provided in answer to queries raised by Congress MLAs Amit Chavda and Shailesh Parmar, revealed extensive law enforcement actions. Over the past year, a total of 24,793 individuals were arrested for their involvement in the liquor trade or drug peddling activities. Additionally, 316 accused persons remain absconding, indicating ongoing investigations and pursuit efforts.
Deputy Chief Minister Sanghavi praised the performance of state law enforcement agencies, describing it as "commendable" in curbing liquor and drug-related offences. He further detailed disciplinary measures taken against police personnel, stating that action had been initiated against 40 officers and 574 constables. These actions included inter-district transfers, suspensions, and fines, aimed at addressing alleged dereliction of duty and ensuring accountability within the force.
Political Debate on Prohibition Law Enforcement
The assembly session witnessed a heated exchange over the effectiveness of Gujarat's prohibition laws. Congress MLA Amit Chavda questioned whether the law was being enforced rigorously, asking, "I want to know from the deputy chief minister whether the prohibition law is in force in the state. Also, while there are prescribed rules for penalizing lower-ranked cops for their role in liquor prevalence, is the govt intent on formulating such rules for higher ranked police officials?"
In response, Sanghavi defended the state's efforts, asserting that Gujarat police's actions against liquor and narcotics were strong and consistent. He highlighted collaborative operations, noting, "It is because the law is in force that the Gujarat ATS has conducted daring operations with Central forces to apprehend narcotics consignments. In several cases, the ATS has seized narcotics that were not even intended to be landed in Gujarat."
Criticism from Opposition MLAs
Despite the government's claims of success, Congress MLA Shailesh Parmar pointed out contradictions in the data. He argued that the increase in IMFL seizures over the past year suggests ongoing consumption within the state. Parmar stated, "While the govt has provided figures of seized liquor, it will have to admit that liquor is being consumed in the state," challenging the narrative of effective prohibition enforcement.
The revelations have sparked a broader discussion on law enforcement strategies and the challenges of implementing prohibition in Gujarat. With significant seizures and arrests, the state government aims to demonstrate its commitment to tackling illegal activities, while opposition voices call for more transparent and accountable measures to address the root causes of liquor and drug prevalence.
