Action Can Be Taken Against Glorification Of Drugs In Films: Fadnavis
The issue triggered a discussion in the Legislative Assembly, with members from both the ruling alliance and the Opposition expressing concern over the growing drug menace.
Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said police personnel found involved in drug trafficking have been dismissed from service, not merely suspended, as the State Government intensifies its crackdown on narcotics. He also said that the rules have been framed in connection with the glorification of drugs in films and complaints can be filed against such content. action can be taken against the glorification of drugs in films under existing rules.
The issue triggered a discussion in the Legislative Assembly, with members from both the ruling alliance and the Opposition expressing concern over the growing drug menace.
Replying to the debate, Mr Fadnavis said the government had adopted a “Whole of Government Approach”, bringing together 15 departments to combat drug trafficking. He said authorities would focus not only on street-level peddlers but also on tracing supply chains to identify and dismantle manufacturing units and trafficking networks .
Highlighting recent action, he said Mumbai Police had secured the extradition of international drug trafficker Salim Dola through a Red Corner Notice. According to authorities, Dola had allegedly set up MD drug manufacturing units in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana, producing nearly 4,000 kg of the synthetic drug. Units linked to him have since been dismantled.
Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Sunil Prabhu questioned the effectiveness of the government's “zero tolerance” policy, alleging that drugs were being openly sold in several localities. NCP (SP) MLA Jayant Patil alleged that some police stations had turned drug trafficking into a source of income and sought strict action against errant personnel.
In response, Mr Fadnavis reiterated that police personnel found directly or indirectly involved in drug rackets had been dismissed from service.
The Chief Minister announced that special anti-narcotics squads would be set up in every police station and that officers serving in anti-drug units would be given incentives and preferred postings. He also said informants' identities would be kept confidential and rewards provided for credible information.
Mr Fadnavis further said the government would ask the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to establish free rehabilitation and de-addiction centres in Mumbai. On concerns over films glorifying drug use, he said complaints could be lodged and action taken under existing regulations.