L.R Bishnoi's Active Deterrence Is Start Of Ending Meghalaya's Narcos Story

L.R. Bishnoi's tenure as the DGP of Meghalaya has been marked by a relentless and comprehensive approach to combating the state's pervasive drug problem. As he prepares to retire on 19th May 2024, it's important to reflect on the nuanced strategies and impactful initiatives implemented during his two-year tenure.  

Meghalaya's geographical proximity to the Golden Triangle of Southeast Asia has made it a vulnerable hub for drug trafficking, posing a significant threat to the state's security. Domestic participation in these drug syndicates has become a headache for the Meghalaya police, threatening the security situation of the state. As per reports, the drug cases increased to 183 compared to 116 in 2020-22. The number of arrests of suspected drug traffickers has also surged from 234 to 349 this year. The participation of the young population of the state in drug abuse and trafficking has also increased. 

Under Bishnoi's leadership, there has been a remarkable increase in the number of drug-related arrests and successful anti-narcotics operations, resulting in the disruption of major drug syndicates operating in the region.  Bishnoi's approach has been multifaceted, encompassing targeted interventions, community engagement, and a comprehensive whole-of-government strategy to address the issue. The state government's DREAM Mission to rehabilitation and de-addiction centre and increase public awareness campaigns to keep the young population of the state at bay from drug trafficking. The state's Khasi Hills is one of the hotbeds of drug tracking, but in the recent past, this area has now come under intense vigil by the state, which led to some successful anti-narcos operations. Recently, Meghalaya Police seized drugs worth Rs 15 crore in just ten days, disrupting a major interstate rug smuggling network. Last month, Meghalaya Police busted a drug trafficking cartel seziing heroin valued of Rs. 1 crore. 

Meghalaya's drug problem is still far from being solved, but the question of ending the drug problem still requires a long-term, practical approach. However, Bishnoi's active deterrence combined with the whole government's approach is an effective start to end Meghalaya's Narcos story.