Himachal Pradesh Government Takes Strong Action Against Police Personnel in Drug Cases
The Himachal Pradesh government has taken decisive action against police personnel involved in illegal drug activities. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu directed the dismissal of eleven police officers on Monday for their alleged participation in chitta smuggling operations.
Immediate Dismissal Orders Issued
Director General of Police Ashok Tewari issued formal dismissal orders against the accused personnel. The state invoked Rule 311 (2) (b) of the Constitution of India to remove these individuals from service. This rule allows for the dismissal of government employees involved in serious misconduct.
The dismissed personnel include:
- Inspector Neeraj Kumar from the 1st Indian Reserve Battalion at Bangarh in Una district
- Constable Shubham Thakur posted in Bilaspur district
- Constable Kapil from the 3rd Indian Reserve Battalion in Pandoh
- Constable Shiv Kumar from the State Disaster Response Force
- Constable Lakshya Chauhan from Shimla district police
- Constable and driver Vishal Thakur from the State Vigilance and Anti Corruption Bureau
- Constable Gaurav Verma from the 4th Indian Reserve Battalion in Jungleberry
- Constable and driver Sandeep Rana from the 2nd Indian Reserve Battalion in Sakoh
- Constable Ankush Kumar from the State Disaster Response Force
- Constable Rajat Chandel from the State CID
- Constable Rahul Verma from Shimla district police
Chief Minister's Firm Stance Against Drug Trafficking
During a high-level meeting in Shimla, Chief Minister Sukhu made his position clear. "The police have a primary responsibility to take strict action against chitta and drug suppliers," he stated firmly. "If police personnel are themselves found involved in drug-related activities, such stringent action becomes inevitable."
The chief minister emphasized that no person involved in chitta trafficking or illegal drug trade would escape consequences. "No one is above the law," Sukhu declared. "Those who promote the illegal trade of chitta and other illegal drugs won't be spared at any cost, regardless of their rank or position."
Comprehensive Crackdown on Drug Networks
The state government has launched a multi-pronged approach to combat drug trafficking. Chief Minister Sukhu directed all government departments to prepare detailed reports on employees involved in chitta trafficking. These reports must reach the Chief Secretary promptly.
Additionally, the government instructed officials to investigate properties acquired through drug money by such employees. These findings will be forwarded to appropriate authorities for further action.
Public Participation Encouraged Through Rewards
To strengthen their anti-drug campaign, the Himachal Pradesh government has activated emergency number 112 for sharing information about chitta smuggling. Authorities have appealed to citizens to provide information without fear.
The state has announced attractive financial rewards for information leading to drug seizures:
- Rs 10,000 for information resulting in recovery of up to two grams of chitta
- Rs 25,000 for information leading to recovery of five grams
- Rs 50,000 for information resulting in recovery of 25 grams
- Rs 5 lakh for information leading to recovery of one kilogram
- Rs 10 lakh for information related to seizures exceeding one kilogram
Informants providing information about major drug syndicates will receive rewards exceeding Rs 5 lakh. This incentive program aims to encourage public participation in the fight against drug trafficking.
Police Department's Ongoing Efforts
During the Shimla meeting, DGP Ashok Tewari presented a detailed overview of police actions against chitta smuggling networks. The department continues to investigate multiple cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act.
This dismissal of eleven police personnel represents one of the most significant actions taken against law enforcement officials involved in drug activities in recent state history. The government's message is clear: involvement in drug trafficking will result in severe consequences, regardless of the perpetrator's position or authority.
