Crucial start to the second phase of 'Operation Toofan: The Narco Hunt'
September 29, 2026
The second phase of 'Operation Toofan: The Narco-Hunt' a comprehensive action plan jointly implemented by the government, the state police, and the Excise Department to make Kerala drug free has officially commenced with significant public participation. Home Minister Shri Ramesh Chennithala inaugurated the state-level launch of this phase at a grand ceremony held at Vengara in Malappuram district at 11:00 AM on September 28, 2026.
The Home Department and the Local Self-Government Department are jointly spearheading this mission under the powerful slogan, "I am the guardian of my land." Following an initial phase marked by strict legal actions and inspections led by the Police and Excise departments, a second phase titled 'Toofan Thadesham' has been launched to extend the initiative to every village and household. Recognizing that police action alone is insufficient to eradicate the drug mafia, the decision was made to strengthen local surveillance by forming 'Toofan Public Vigilance Committees' at the ward level. By coordinating groups such as Kudumbashree, Haritha Karma Sena, residents' associations, local clubs, and student and youth organizations to form a people's force known as 'Toofan Warriors,' it will be possible to completely halt drug sales in the vicinity of schools and colleges. Additionally, the 'Toofan Care' project is being implemented as part of this initiative; it ensures free treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation for those addicted to drugs, viewing them not as criminals but as individuals in need of care and a path back to a normal life.
As part of the panchayat-level inauguration of the second phase of 'Operation Toofan: The Narco Hunt' in Asamannoor Grama Panchayat, Panchayat President Shri N.M. Salim hoisted the 'Toofan' flag and formally inaugurated the project. Additionally, a community task force named 'Toofan Warriors' was formed at the ward level, and its members were presented with 'Toofan Warriors' badges. The event was attended by District Panchayat Member Shri Mubas Odakkali, Block Panchayat Member Smt. Preetha Suku, Vice President Smt. Bindu Narayanan, Standing Committee Chairpersons, Grama Panchayat members, staff, police officers, implementing officials, Kudumbashree Haritha Karma Sena members, students, teachers, and local residents. Following the inauguration, Shri Abi, the Assistant Circle Inspector of Kuruppampady, conducted an awareness session on the dangers of substance abuse.
