Kerala's drug cases exceed Punjab's in 2024

In 2024, Kerala reported a staggering 27,701 drug-related cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. This number is more than three times higher than Punjab's 9,025 cases, according to the Union Home Ministry. The rise in drug abuse, especially among the youth, has prompted strong responses from state authorities. Kerala’s drug issue has escalated rapidly in recent years. The state saw drug-related cases increase from 5,695 in 2021 to over 30,000 in 2023. In total, Kerala recorded 87,101 drug cases over the past four years, marking a 130% rise from the previous four-year period. Despite being known for its high literacy rate, drug abuse is now a major concern in Kerala. Authorities attribute the drug problem to effective policing and a surge in trafficking. Kerala now has 78 drug cases per lakh people, significantly higher than Punjab’s 30 cases per lakh. Each of Kerala’s districts reported at least 500 cases under the NDPS Act in 2022, showing that this issue affects both urban and rural areas. Drug trafficking in Kerala uses various routes, including land and sea. Bengaluru has emerged as a key transit point. Seizures of synthetic drugs have surged dramatically, with one seizure in 2023 alone netting 2,525 kg of methamphetamine. Traditional smuggling methods have evolved, with local networks becoming more prominent. Recent cases also involve drugs shipped via international post and cryptocurrency. To combat the drug crisis, Kerala's police have intensified their efforts. They have established special squads dedicated to narcotics enforcement and are actively training their personnel in modern detection and prevention techniques. There are also community initiatives, including vigilante committees that punish suspected dealers. In some areas, bounties are offered for information leading to arrests. The state government has introduced task forces and appointed senior officers to oversee anti-drug campaigns. Despite these efforts, coordination problems exist between the police and excise departments, hindering efficiency. Kerala recorded the highest number of drug-related arrests in the country in 2024, with a high conviction rate of 98.9%. However, the overall value of drugs seized in the state remains low compared to national figures.