Operation D -Hunt: Kerala's Ironclad Resolve to Create a Drug-Free Society

Thiruvananthapuram: In a bold and unyielding effort to protect its youth and society from the scourge of narcotics, the Kerala government has launched an all-out offensive against drug abuse. Under the direction of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, the state has rolled out a comprehensive and multi-faceted strategy, aptly named Operation D-Hunt, a collaborative initiative between the police and excise departments. This operation has already led to the arrest of 2,854 individuals involved in drug-related activities, marking a significant milestone in Kerala’s relentless battle against narcotics. The government’s ironclad resolve ensures that offenders will face the full brunt of the law, leaving no room for leniency.

The groundwork for this robust campaign was laid during a high-level police meeting chaired by the Chief Minister last week. The meeting underscored the need for a foolproof system to tackle drug abuse, including the creation of a specialised manual to prevent offenders from slipping through the cracks due to lack of evidence. Repeat offenders will face the music with preventive detention, backed by intelligence from the Narcotics Control Bureau. To further strengthen its efforts, Kerala has developed a comprehensive database of narcotics offenders, modelled after the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA) Register, ensuring that no offender can evade the long arm of the law.

Kerala’s strategy goes beyond mere enforcement. The state has tightened its grip on the supply chain by intensifying inspections on trains and buses entering from neighbouring states. Recognising that awareness is as vital as action, the government has launched a widespread public awareness campaign. This initiative brings together students, youth, women, family welfare workers, community organisations, libraries, clubs, residents' associations, and socio-cultural-political groups. Schools are being closely monitored under the watchful eyes of teachers, while steps are being taken to ban violent video games that could potentially corrupt young minds. A list of such games is being compiled and will be presented to the Union Home Ministry for further action.

In a bid to address the cultural influence on drug abuse, the state government is engaging with filmmakers to regulate the portrayal of violence and drug use in movies and web series. Clear guidelines are being formulated to discourage content that glorifies narcotics, while films that raise awareness against drug abuse will be encouraged. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasised the need to nurture a morally upright younger generation, urging the police to collaborate with experts and analyse the root causes of drug-related crimes. He stressed that while some issues may fall outside the jurisdiction of Kerala police, they must still be addressed with equal vigour.

Kerala’s achievements in curbing drug abuse have not gone unnoticed. The state has emerged as a trailblazer in the nation’s fight against narcotics, earning accolades from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) for its relentless efforts to dismantle drug rackets. Through joint raids, heightened vigilance, and increased night patrolling, Kerala has significantly reduced the flow and consumption of drugs. In 2018, the state was lauded at a national -level meet for its exemplary efforts in snuffing out drug networks, setting a benchmark for other states to follow.

Notable Arrests: High -Profile Drug Busts outside Kerala

One of the most remarkable feats in Kerala’s anti-narcotics campaign was the dismantling of a synthetic drug production unit in a landmark operation led by the Thrissur DANSAF team. The operation, which began with the arrest of Fazil Mullantakathu in possession of 20 grams of synthetic drugs, unravelled a sprawling drug distribution network across the state. The investigation led to the arrest of key players, including Biju from Kodagu, distributors Somaiah and Ramarao from Bangalore, and Mehender Reddy from Telangana. The mastermind behind the operation, Ishukapalli Venkata Narasimha Raju, was also apprehended. Raju, who had been in the drug business for over two decades, was found to be producing drugs under the guise of medications for bladder and kidney diseases. The advanced foreign machinery and synthetic drug materials from his unit left the police astounded, marking one of the most high-profile drug busts in the state’s history.

Kerala’s police force has demonstrated unparalleled dedication in this fight. Under the leadership of Thrissur City Police Commissioner Ilango R and former Ollur ACP Muhammad Nadeemuddin, the investigative team, including Inspector Ajeesh A, Benny Jacob, and several other officers, worked tirelessly to bring the culprits to justice.

In another significant operation, the police arrested Jaffar alias Anees, a drug smuggling gang leader from Odisha, who had been operating discreetly in Maoist-infested areas. Jaffar’s arrest, executed with precision and without alerting Odisha police, showcased Kerala’s determination to leave no stone unturned in its pursuit of justice.

A Collective Effort Towards a Drug -Free Kerala

Complementing these enforcement efforts is the Vimukthi Mission, a flagship anti-narcotics campaign launched by the Kerala government. This initiative, implemented in collaboration with student police cadets, educational institutions, community organizations, and local bodies, aims to create a drug -free Kerala. Programs like Jeevani Counselling, Sradha Campaign for hostel wardens, and Mukthadhara’s Drug- Free Campus has been instrumental in curbing drug usage among students.

Karuthal Helpline provides a platform for citizens to report drug- related issues, ensuring that their concerns are addressed confidentially. School Protection Groups(SPG) were established to curb drug usage among students in school. SPG has been a huge success and has been a role model in preventing drug usage among school students. After the success of this programme LDF Government is planning to introduce College Protection Group in colleges too. The school officials and the police department will jointly implement the programme. The government is trying to implement the SPC model in colleges, too.

Kerala’s holistic approach—combining stringent enforcement, public awareness, and community engagement—has set a gold standard in the fight against drug abuse. The state’s achievements are a testament to its unwavering resolve and innovative strategies. As Kerala continues to lead by example, it sends a powerful message to the nation: with determination and collective effort, the scourge of narcotics can be eradicated, paving the way for a brighter, drug-free future.