Maharashtra Tightens Immigration and Drug Violation Measures

Maharashtra's government, under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, launches a new system to track overstaying foreign nationals and tackle illegal drug activities. Measures include tougher immigration record reconciliation, immediate deportations, and strict actions against illicit business operations. Focus extends to senior officers aiding criminal networks.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the introduction of a mechanism to monitor immigration records, aiming to track foreign nationals overstaying visas or violating their conditions. Speaking in the state assembly, he confirmed the identification and deportation of 69 foreign nationals involved in drug-related cases and the detention of 122 others.

The Central government has mandated the deportation of those committing minor offenses to extend their stay. Fadnavis highlighted that visitors often enter on valid documents, such as short-term medical visas, but later avoid detection by abandoning their paperwork. The new system aims to address this in Mumbai.

In a crackdown on illegal drug sales, the chief minister announced stringent measures against businesses operating outside permissible hours, warning of permanent license cancellations for repeat violations. The Vasai-Virar region saw 30 raids and seizures worth Rs 11 crore. Authorities aim to dismantle criminal networks by holding accountable all involved officers, regardless of their rank.

(With inputs from agencies.)