105 grams of heroin seized from two Haryana youths

In a significant drug bust, the Manali police intercepted two youths from Haryana and seized 105.62 gram of heroin (chitta) during a covert operation in Chachoga village near Aleo. Manali DSP KD Sharma said the operation was led by head constable Jagdish based on a tip-off. The suspects, identified as Kapil Kumar (29) and Sanchit (27) from Jind district, were stopped and searched, leading to the recovery of narcotics. Both have been booked under Sections 21 and 29 of the NDPS Act. The police are now investigating the supply network linked to the consignment.

A legal analyst pointed out that while heroin fetches around $300 (Rs 25,600) per gram internationally, it sells for approximately Rs 5,000 in Punjab and neighbouring states. Under NDPS guidelines, a “commercial quantity” is defined as 240 grams or more. He argued that lowering this threshold for heroin would deter small-scale traffickers and ensure stricter punishment.

Social activist Aditya emphasised that while action against dealers is essential, addicts must be treated with compassion. “Addiction is a medical issue that requires counseling and medication,” he said, urging people to support families in securing help for addicts instead of shaming them.

Another activist, Abhishek, questioned how such large drug quantities continue to enter Himachal despite existing security networks. He highlighted the vulnerability of youth in Punjab and Haryana and called for coordinated action by law enforcement, communities, and governments to curb the growing menace of chitta.

Himachal Tribune