Drugs of Rs 153 cr seized in Maharashtra in first 4 months of 2025: Fadnavis tells assembly

Mumbai, Jul 8 (PTI) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday told the legislative assembly that 28,302 kilograms of drugs valued at Rs 153.25 crore were seized across the state between January and April 2025.

He admitted that despite a ban on gutka and various tobacco products in the state, they continue to be sold at roadside stalls.

In a written reply to a question asked by Kashinath Date (NCP) and others in the Lower House of the state legislature over the issue, Fadnavis said 5,001 cases have been filed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and 4,481 persons have been arrested for trafficking, possession and consumption of drugs during this period.

Also, action has been taken against 37,149 persons in connection with the sale, possession and consumption of gutka or other tobacco products from January to April this year, he said.

Anti-Narcotics Cells (ANCs) have been set up at all police establishments in the state, the CM said.

Similarly, Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) as well as a Narco-Coordination Centre have been established, he added.

According to the CM, several steps were being taken to create awareness against drugs. PTI MR NP