Himachal STF destroys over 1.32 lakh opium plants in major anti-drug operation in Kullu
Shashi Bhushan Purohit
Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, May 9, 2026: In a major crackdown against illegal narcotics cultivation, the Special Task Force (STF) of Himachal Pradesh Police destroyed more than 1.32 lakh opium plants grown illegally on nearly four bighas of land in Kullu district.
According to officials, the STF received secret information regarding illegal poppy cultivation in village Shalingcha in the Bathad area of Banjar region. Acting on the tip-off, two STF teams from Kullu carried out a large-scale search and raid operation at the site.
During the operation, officials discovered extensive illegal opium cultivation spread across private land measuring around four bighas. The STF teams recovered and destroyed approximately 1,32,787 opium plants on the spot.
Police have registered two separate cases under the NDPS Act at Banjar Police Station against those allegedly involved in the illegal cultivation.
Officials stated that the action was part of the state police’s intensified campaign to curb narcotics production and prevent the spread of drug-related activities in Himachal Pradesh.
The Himachal Pradesh Police also appealed to the public, especially youth, to immediately report any information related to “chitta” or other narcotic substances by calling 112 or informing the nearest police station.
Authorities assured that the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential.