Operation Toofan 2.0
The second phase of 'Operation Toofan: The Narco Hunt' a comprehensive action plan jointly implemented by the government, state police, and the Excise Department to make Kerala drug free has officially launched with significant public participation. Home Minister Shri Ramesh Chennithala inaugurated the state-level second phase of the project at a grand ceremony held in Vengara, Malappuram district.
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 the strict legal actions and inspections conducted by the police and Excise Department during the first phase, the second phase titled 'Toofan Thadesham' has been devised to extend the project's reach to every village and household. Recognizing that police action alone is insufficient to completely eradicate the drug mafia, the decision was made to strengthen local surveillance by establishing 'Toofan Public Vigilance Committees' at the ward level.
By coordinating groups such as Kudumbashree, Haritha Karma Sena, residents' associations, local clubs, and student-youth organizations to form a people's force known as 'Toofan Warriors,' it is possible to completely halt the sale of narcotics 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 medical care and support to return to a normal life.
As part of the panchayat-level inauguration for 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. Furthermore, a 'Toofan Warriors' people's force was constituted at the ward level, and members were presented with 'Toofan Warriors' badges. District Panchayat Member Shri. Mubas Odakkali, Block Panchayat Member Smt. Preetha Suku, and Vice President Smt. Bindu Narayanan were present. Standing committee chairpersons, Grama Panchayat members, staff, police officers, implementing officials, Kudumbashree Haritha Karma Sena members, school and college students, teachers, and local residents participated. Following the inauguration, Shri. Abi, the Assistant Circle Inspector of Kuruppampady, conducted an awareness class on the dangers of substance abuse.