Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha today reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking, saying police have complete operational freedom to investigate and arrest offenders without political interference. He also announced plans to install advanced border scanners.
Agartala: In line with the Central Government policy, State Government is committed to the zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking, Tripura CM Dr Manik Saha reiterated today.
Tripura to install advanced border scanners
The Chief Minister said the government plans to install advanced scanner machines at border checkposts to strengthen surveillance against drug smuggling.
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Although these scanners are expensive, he said they will significantly improve narcotics detection and help security agencies intercept illegal consignments more effectively.
Dr Saha said the technology will allow authorities to inspect cargo vehicles quickly without disrupting commercial traffic. The system will support the government’s Ease of Doing Business initiative while strengthening border security.
He also said narcotics originating in Myanmar often enter Tripura through Assam before traffickers attempt to smuggle them into Bangladesh. The government is therefore expanding surveillance and introducing more technology-driven inspections along vulnerable border stretches.
Police Free to Act
Our Enewstime correspondent in Agartala reported Dr Saha said the government has given the police complete freedom to investigate and act against drug traffickers.
He stressed that the government does not interfere in any investigation and that police officers act only on the basis of law and evidence.
Speaking to the media, Dr Saha said the recent seizure of a massive quantity of narcotics from a train reflects the efficiency and vigilance of the police.
“The recovery of such a huge quantity of drugs shows that the police are working actively. It is a positive sign. We are implementing the zero-tolerance policy announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. No offender receives any protection. However, police can arrest a person only when evidence supports the case,” he said.
The Chief Minister said investigators have brought several accused involved in interstate drug trafficking networks to Tripura from Delhi and other states. Authorities have already initiated legal proceedings against them. Many of the accused remain in judicial custody.
Dr. Saha said the state government has ensured complete operational independence for the police.
“The government never interferes in investigations. Police continue to seize and destroy narcotics worth crores of rupees. These actions have reduced the profitability of the illegal drug trade. Drug trafficking networks are suffering heavy financial losses,” he said.
CM welcomes expansion of MGNREGA benefits
Replying to another question, Dr. Saha welcomed the expansion of benefits under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
He said the daily wage under the rural employment scheme has increased to ₹300. The guaranteed number of workdays has also risen from 100 days to 125 days annually.
According to the Chief Minister, timely allocation of work and compensation for delays will make the programme more effective. He expressed confidence that the enhanced benefits will strengthen rural employment, boost Tripura’s rural economy and improve the socio-economic condition of people across the state.
Dr Saha said the government remains committed to strengthening both internal security and rural development through better enforcement, modern technology and expanded welfare initiatives.
