By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 23: Over the past five years, more than 1,000 people have been arrested in Meghalaya under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, highlighting the alarming scale of the drug menace in the state. Data from 2020 to April 21, 2025, reveals that 564 NDPS cases were registered during this period, leading to the arrest of 1,005 individuals, including 112 women.
Out of the 564 cases, 421 have been charge-sheeted, while final reports have been filed in 63 cases. One case was either discharged, disposed of, or abated, and 409 cases are currently pending trial.
However, the most concerning aspect is the low conviction rate. Only 15 individuals have been convicted in the last five years, while one person was acquitted. Meanwhile, 80 cases are still pending investigation.
During this period, the Meghalaya Police seized a significant quantity of narcotics, including 38,191.276 grams of heroin and 12,319.4253 grams of ganja/cannabis. Additionally, 2,654.36 grams of opium and 76.40174 kilograms of methamphetamine/Yaba (WY) tablets were confiscated. Other notable seizures include 14.232 kilograms of white crystal methamphetamine, 16,249.9145 grams of various psychotropic substances (such as nitrazepam, Nitrosun, Spasmoproxyvon, SPSPHEN, etc.), and 123,956 bottles of 100 ml codeine cough syrup.
The data also shows that 361 vehicles, 986 mobile phones, Rs 92.86 lakh in cash, three firearms, and six daggers were seized during this period.
Meghalaya, especially Shillong and its surrounding areas, continues to grapple with the growing problem of drug abuse. In response, the government has launched the DREAM programme, a comprehensive initiative that aims to curb the drug menace. The mission has outlined a two to three-year timeline to bring the situation under control.
