Kerala CM Seeks Joint Action With Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry To Curb Drug Trafficking

Kerala Chief Minister has written to the governments of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry , seeking stronger inter-state cooperation to combat drug trafficking networks , as part of a broader regional enforcement strategy aimed at dismantling cross-border narcotics supply chains.

The move comes under Kerala’s ongoing “Operation Toofan” , an intensified anti-drug campaign focused on intelligence-led policing, financial investigations and coordinated action against drug syndicates operating across state boundaries.

In his communication, the Chief Minister emphasised that drug trafficking is no longer confined within state borders , with organised networks operating across southern India through interconnected routes involving highways, border districts, urban centres and coastal zones. He stressed that tackling the issue requires a regional strategy rather than isolated state-level action .

Kerala has proposed closer coordination with neighbouring states and the Union Territory of Puducherry through real-time intelligence sharing, joint enforcement operations and synchronised planning . The letter also highlighted the need to target the financial ecosystem of drug networks , including proceeds of crime and illegally acquired assets.

Border areas linking Kerala with Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, as well as major transit corridors, tourist hubs and student populations, were identified as key vulnerability points exploited by traffickers.

According to the communication, Kerala Police have already arrested several interstate and international drug traffickers under the ongoing drive. However, officials noted that sustained impact will depend on coordinated multi-state enforcement mechanisms .

As part of the proposed framework, Kerala has called for a high-level meeting of Home Department officials and police leadership from the four administrations to develop a joint operational plan, strengthen information exchange and improve rapid response against narcotics trafficking networks operating across the region.