Operation Toofan: Law will apply equally to film personalities and VIPs in drug cases, says Ramesh Chennithala

Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has maintained that there will be no immunity against influential drug criminals in Kerala.

Addressing the Legislative Assembly during Question Hour on Tuesday, June 13, 2026, the Minister said the government will take stringent action against criminals, regardless of their status, as part of the state’s anti-drug campaign, Operation Toofan.

Referring to the alleged prevalence of drug use at DJ parties, luxury hotels, and film-related gatherings, he said there will be strong action and that law would be applied equally to everyone, “including film personalities and other influential persons.”

He added that youth and student organizations will be involved in the statewide campaign as part of the major awareness campaign aimed at preventing substance abuse among youth.

Social awareness against drag abuse

Addressing the Legislative Assembly during Question Hour, he said the government also plans to bring together voluntary groups, social and religious organizations to strengthen public awareness against drug abuse.

According to the minister, Kerala Police registered 2,954 cases involving possession of various prohibited narcotic substances between June 2 and June 17 under Operation Toofan. Additionally, 1,421 cases of tobacco product-related violations under the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) were registered.

As part of intensified awareness and rehabilitation efforts. More than 2,152 anti-drug awareness classes and 167 counseling sessions were held in the districts. In addition, 12 people struggling with substance addiction were directed to addiction centers for treatment and rehabilitation.

Additionally, dedicated helpline numbers and the WhatsApp facility launched for confidentially sharing information regarding drug trafficking and consumption to the public received more than 1,600 phone calls and 1,116 WhatsApp messages.