Now, Congress Govt in Karnataka warns of bulldozer action in drug cases

The minister said about 300 foreign nationals arrested for peddling drugs had been deported in the last two years.

While for the past several years, the Opposition has criticised BJP-led governments in various states over “bulldozer justice”, this is one of the first instances of a senior minister in a Congress government suggesting the potential use of bulldozers to deal with alleged crimes.

Last year, the Supreme Court held that demolishing the properties of citizens without following due process for the sole reason that they may be involved in some crime is contrary to the rule of law and directed that officials indulging in such “high-handed actions” be made accountable. The court also issued certain directions that have to be complied with before properties are demolished.

“The production, sale, and consumption of narcotics are increasing day by day globally. The sale of narcotics has transformed into a highly profitable business for sellers. Interstate and international networks are operating for enormous profits. Since these networks are active in almost all countries worldwide, this drug problem has become universal,” Parameshwara said.

He said many foreign nationals were also part of the illegal business. “Some of the foreign nationals who were caught in drug peddling are happy to be caught as it makes them stay on in India. We are ensuring they are being deported. However, it is tedious, as embassies and consulates are involved in deporting them. We have deported about 300 foreign nationals.”

The minister said if any police officer was found to be involved with a cartel, the government would dismiss them from service, apart from charging them.

According to the Home Department, 4,168 drug cases were registered in 2024, of which convictions took place in 1,833. This year, till November 15, the number of cases has jumped to 5,747, with 1,079 convictions.

According to Bengaluru city police data shared in the first week of December, the capital city has reported 1,078 drug-related offences this year, with 1,543 arrests, including 52 foreign nationals, and 1,446.75 kg of drugs worth Rs 160 crore seized.

Parameshwara said an Anti-Narcotics Task Force had been established under the Additional Director General of Police to combat and prevent the spread of narcotics in the state. He said this was the country’s first task force dedicated exclusively to combating drugs and was visiting all the districts.