Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly Confronts Escalating Narcotics Crisis
The Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly on Wednesday became the stage for a fiery and intense debate concerning the alleged surge in narcotics trade across the state. The discussion highlighted starkly contrasting perspectives between the ruling government and opposition members on the effectiveness of anti-drug measures.
MLA Alarms Assembly Over Worsening Drug Menace
Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Ajay Chandrakar raised serious concerns, alleging a rapidly worsening drug menace with particular emphasis on the easy availability of narcotics in proximity to educational institutions. He argued that the situation demanded urgent and more effective intervention beyond mere statistics.
Home Minister Defends Government's Aggressive Crackdown
In a robust defense, Home Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma detailed the state government's comprehensive crackdown on drug networks. He informed the Assembly that properties valued at a staggering Rs 13.3 crore have been attached under relevant legislation, with cases being vigorously pursued.
"Our commitment is absolute," stated Sharma, highlighting key initiatives including the formation of a dedicated Anti-Narcotics Task Force, the seizure of 296 vehicles linked to drug trafficking, and a significant recent seizure of 9 quintals of ganja in Kawardha district.
No Exceptions: Police Personnel Also Under Scrutiny
In a significant revelation, the Home Minister confirmed that the crackdown extends even within the police force. He cited a specific incident from 11 February 2026, where a police constable was apprehended in Tikrapara, Raipur, found in possession of heroin (commonly known as chitta) and a live cartridge.
"A case under the NDPS Act and the Arms Act was registered immediately. Legal action is being taken against any official found complicit, without any leniency," Sharma asserted, underscoring a zero-tolerance policy.
Official Data Reveals Scale of Enforcement
The government presented official data to illustrate the scale of its operations:
- In the last four months alone, police registered 399 cases of drug trafficking and arrested 679 individuals.
- For the entire year of 2025, the state recorded 1,288 cases leading to 2,342 arrests.
- The action has continued into 2026, with 146 cases and 257 arrests reported by 31 January.
Opposition Counters: Statistics Mask Ground Reality
MLA Ajay Chandrakar countered the government's presentation, arguing that listing arrests and seizures was insufficient. He cited data from the Social Justice and Development Department to point out a significant rise in the number of ganja users and individuals misusing medicinal syrups for intoxication, particularly in the Balrampur and Bastar regions.
Government Rejects Claims of Administrative Failure
Responding to a calling attention motion moved by ruling party MLAs Ajay Chandrakar and Dharamlal Kaushik, Deputy CM Sharma firmly rejected any allegations of administrative failure. He reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to eradicating the illegal narcotics trade.
Addressing specific concerns about the sale of smoking accessories like rolling papers and cones in Raipur and Durg, Sharma confirmed that special drives are being conducted to curb this ancillary trade.
Breaking the Supply and Demand Chains
Dismissing allegations of public resentment, the Deputy Chief Minister asserted that the government's strategy is successfully targeting both the supply and demand sides of the drug trade. "We are attacking this menace from all angles. Our actions are breaking the chains that sustain this illegal economy," he concluded, framing the debate as evidence of the administration's proactive, albeit contested, stance against narcotics.
