Chandigarh, 19 June (H.S.): Haryana Government has notified the establishment of 13 new exclusive Fast Track Special NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) Courts across the state. The move significantly strengthens the judicial framework for handling drug-related cases and is expected to ensure faster trials and quicker disposal of pending cases.

With the latest expansion, the total number of NDPS Fast Track and Special Courts in Haryana has increased to 21. According to the notification issued by the Administration of Justice Department, one Special NDPS Court at the level of Additional Sessions Judge has been established each in Faridabad, Gurugram, Panchkula, Rohtak and Yamunanagar. Additionally, two new Special NDPS Courts have been sanctioned in Fatehabad, taking the district’s total to three, while six new courts have been set up in Sirsa, increasing its total to seven.

The state had earlier established two NDPS Fast Track Courts in Sirsa and Fatehabad in April 2022, followed by six more courts in Ambala, Hisar, Kaithal, Karnal, Kurukshetra and Panipat in February 2023. At present, eight NDPS Fast Track/Special Courts are already operational in these districts.

Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) Ajay Singhal described the expansion as a crucial step in strengthening the state’s anti-drug campaign. He stated that Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has adopted a strict approach towards narcotics traffickers and remains committed to protecting the youth from the menace of drugs.

According to the DGP, Haryana Police is implementing a comprehensive strategy that combines law enforcement, intelligence gathering, financial investigations, attachment of properties acquired through drug trafficking, public awareness initiatives and speedy judicial processes. The newly established courts are expected to accelerate case hearings, strengthen prosecution efforts and ensure swift punishment for offenders.

Singhal emphasized that the state follows a “zero tolerance” policy against drug traffickers and is working tirelessly to dismantle the entire narcotics ecosystem. He said the coordinated efforts of police, prosecution and the judiciary will play a key role in achieving the goal of a drug-free Haryana.

To encourage public participation in the anti-drug campaign, the Haryana State Narcotics Control Bureau (HSNCB) continues to operate its 24x7 Anti-Drug Helpline, enabling citizens to confidentially report drug trafficking and related activities. The MANAS portal and helpline number 1933, operated by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), are also being widely promoted across the state to strengthen citizen involvement in the fight against narcotics.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH