Chennai, May 12:
In its first major law-and-order initiative after assuming office, Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has unveiled an aggressive anti-narcotics strategy, ordering the establishment of dedicated Anti-Narcotic Task Force police stations across Tamil Nadu.
The Government Order issued by the Home Department formalises Vijay’s maiden announcement after taking oath, where he pledged a strong and sustained crackdown on drug trafficking and substance abuse across the State. The move signals a top-priority focus on curbing narcotics circulation through a coordinated and multi-pronged approach.
As part of the initiative, 65 specialised Anti-Narcotic Task Force units will be set up across all police districts and commissionerates. To operationalise these units, the government has approved the redeployment of inspectors, sub-inspectors, head constables and other personnel, ensuring dedicated manpower for enforcement.
The strategy is built around a comprehensive seven-point framework. It includes continuous monitoring of known narcotics offenders and organised drug syndicates, alongside enhanced intelligence-based enforcement operations. Authorities will also track interstate and inter-district drug movement to dismantle supply chains.
A key component of the plan is the introduction of online surveillance to monitor digital platforms suspected of facilitating drug transactions. This reflects a shift towards tackling emerging cyber-enabled narcotics networks.
The framework also emphasises strict enforcement of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, combined with rehabilitation programmes for individuals affected by substance abuse. In parallel, the government plans to roll out large-scale awareness campaigns, particularly targeting youth and educational institutions.
Significantly, the order empowers the specialised units to initiate attachment and confiscation of properties and assets allegedly acquired through drug trafficking. This move aims to weaken the financial backbone of organised narcotics operations.
The Anti-Narcotic Task Force units will function under the direct supervision of the Chief Minister, underscoring the government’s intent to maintain close oversight and ensure accountability in its anti-drug campaign.