Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended police action against drug traffickers
July 7, 2026: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to making the state drug-free, defending police action against traffickers during a discussion in the state assembly. He said officers are sometimes forced to use strict measures, including firing in self-defence, and added that criticism of such actions affects police morale. Sarma also noted that drug trafficking impacts all communities and said investigations often trace smuggling routes back to Myanmar, prompting coordinated efforts with neighbouring Mizoram and Manipur to curb cross-border trafficking.
Highlighting the government’s anti-drug campaign, State Minister Pijush Hazarika informed the assembly that 14,823 cases were registered under the NDPS Act and other laws between 2021 and 2025. During this period, authorities seized 696 kg of heroin and other narcotics, while arrests rose from 4,175 in 2021 to 4,901 in 2025. He also said the Drugs Free Assam app, launched in 2021 for anonymous complaints, has led to 585 reports, seizures worth nearly ₹3 crore, and the arrest of 30 accused in 16 cases.
Congress MLA Jakir Hussain Sikdar acknowledged police efforts but said drug smuggling and abuse continue to affect all sections of society, calling for stronger and more coordinated action. He also alleged that some traffickers were released after bribing police officials. AIUDF legislator Badruddin Ajmal claimed the problem was widespread in Muslim-majority areas and urged the government to adopt the toughest possible measures against the drug network.