Rajasthan’s Major Ganja Bust: Key Details
In a significant crackdown on illegal drug cultivation, Rajasthan Police and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) seized over 50 bighas of cannabis (ganja) plantations and destroyed more than 8,000 plants in a joint operation in Udaipur district. The raid, conducted in the remote forest areas of Jhadol and Kotra, ranks among the largest ganja seizures in Rajasthan this year.
Raid & Seizure: How It Happened
Acting on intelligence inputs, NCB officials, local police, and forest department personnel raided tribal-dominated regions of southern Rajasthan. Over two days, they uncovered vast cannabis fields, with plants reaching 8-10 feet tall. Authorities uprooted and burned the ganja plants, worth crores in the black market, along with drying racks and processing equipment.
Interstate Drug Network Exposed
Investigations suggest the plantation was linked to a cross-border syndicate with ties to suppliers in Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat. The harvested ganja was likely headed to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, where demand is high.
An NCB official stated:
“We suspect interstate gangs fund these cultivations in remote areas to avoid detection.”
Why Illegal Cultivation Persists in Rajasthan
Despite strict NDPS Act laws, Rajasthan’s tribal belts remain hotspots for illegal cannabis farming due to:
– Rugged terrain & dense forests hindering surveillance
– Economic distress driving farmers to illicit crops
– Middlemen exploiting villagers with quick-cash offers
A police officer noted:
“Many poor farmers don’t realize the legal risks.”
Next Steps: Arrests & Crackdown
While no arrests have been made yet, suspects—including local farmers—are being questioned. The NCB plans drone surveillance and increased patrolling. Rajasthan’s Home Department also announced a state-wide anti-drug campaign, targeting cartel finances.
Public & Political Backlash
The seizure has ignited debates on:
– Stronger enforcement against drug mafias
– Rehabilitation programs for affected farmers
– Political blame games, with opposition accusing state negligence
Key Takeaway
This raid marks a win against narcotics, but long-term solutions—like alternative livelihoods and better intelligence—are needed to curb future cultivation.
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