In a major crackdown on illegal drug activities, Assam Police destroyed over 170 bighas (approximately 56 acres) of poppy cultivation in the char areas of Goalpara district in January 2025. The operation is part of Assam’s sustained efforts to curb drug abuse and trafficking, reinforcing the state’s resolve to fight the menace of narcotics. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took to his official social media platforms to announce the successful destruction of the poppy fields and emphasized the government’s commitment to fighting drugs in the region.
The operation, which took place in Goalpara’s char areas, is a major achievement for Assam Police, as it disrupted illegal poppy farming, which is widely used to produce opium. In his tweet, Sarma humorously addressed the drug traders, writing, “Dear Local Pablo Escobars, Sorry to spoil your planned Udta Assam party! Because @Goalpara_Police destroyed 170 Bighas of poppy cultivation in the Char areas worth Rs 27.20 crore in January.” He also shared a video showing police personnel using a tractor to destroy the poppy plants.
The Chief Minister’s reference to the infamous Colombian drug lord, Pablo Escobar, serves as a reminder of the scale and impact that drug trafficking can have, not only on the local economy but on society as a whole. Escobar’s reign in Colombia caused widespread devastation, and Sarma’s comparison emphasizes Assam’s determination to prevent similar drug trade activities in the state.
The Impact of Poppy Cultivation in Assam
The destruction of over 170 bighas of poppy fields is part of a broader initiative by the Assam government to eradicate illegal drug cultivation, particularly in remote and difficult-to-reach areas like the char lands. Char areas, which are islands formed by riverbanks, are often difficult for authorities to monitor, making them prime locations for illegal farming activities, including poppy cultivation.
Poppy farming has become a significant concern due to its use in the production of opium, a key ingredient in heroin. The illegal cultivation and trade of opium have serious ramifications, not only fueling drug addiction within Assam but also contributing to the cross-border trafficking of narcotics. By dismantling these poppy plantations, the Assam government is sending a strong message that it is committed to stopping the spread of drug abuse and illegal drug trade.
The worth of the destroyed poppy fields, estimated at Rs 27.20 crore, underscores the scale of the illicit industry. Such operations are crucial in cutting off supply chains and weakening the economic power of those involved in the illegal narcotics trade.
Assam’s Commitment to Combat Drug Trafficking
The destruction of poppy crops in Goalpara is not an isolated event but part of a broader, statewide effort to combat the growing problem of drug trafficking in Assam. The state’s anti-drug initiatives have been aggressive, targeting not only the cultivation of narcotic plants but also their distribution and consumption. The Assam government has been working closely with local police and other agencies to create awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, while also taking strong enforcement actions against traffickers and drug lords.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has often highlighted the government’s commitment to transforming Assam into a drug-free state. With rising concerns over the availability and use of drugs in various parts of the state, such as in urban centers and remote villages, the Assam government has prioritized drug control measures as a key part of its development agenda.
Further Arrests and Operations
In a separate operation, the East Guwahati Police Department (EGPD) arrested Hafiza Khatun, aged 35, after a raid in her hideout led to the seizure of 685 grams of ganja and a mobile phone. This operation is another example of the Assam Police’s commitment to tackling the illegal drug trade at all levels. Legal action has been initiated against Khatun, and investigations are ongoing to trace other individuals involved in the trafficking of drugs.
Assam’s sustained efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking are expected to intensify in the coming months. The state government is focusing on improving law enforcement, while also fostering greater awareness among communities about the dangers of drug use. Collaborative efforts with other states and national agencies are also being strengthened to dismantle larger drug trafficking networks.
As Assam continues to address its drug-related challenges, the recent destruction of poppy farms in Goalpara and the arrest of drug dealers serve as important reminders of the ongoing fight against illegal narcotics. Through continued vigilance and enforcement actions, Assam aims to reduce the availability of drugs in the state and safeguard the health and well-being of its citizens.
The destruction of 170 bighas of poppy cultivation in Goalpara by Assam Police marks a significant victory in the state’s war on drugs. With strong leadership from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and an active partnership with law enforcement agencies, Assam is sending a clear message that the state will not tolerate the illegal drug trade. As Assam continues to battle the growing narcotics problem, further actions, including arrests and awareness campaigns, will be essential in ensuring a drug-free future for its residents.