Karnataka Sees 63% Rise in Drug-Related Cases

Karnataka has recorded a sharp rise in cases registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, with official data showing a 63% increase within a year, according to a report by The New Indian Express on Thursday.

Data from the Karnataka State Police shows NDPS cases increasing from 4,187 in 2024 to 6,825 in 2025, a rise of nearly 63% within a year. The spike has raised concerns among law enforcement agencies, health professionals and policymakers. Officials say the rise reflects intensified enforcement as well as the widening availability of narcotic and psychotropic substances across the state.

Senior police officers attribute the higher numbers to focused drives across multiple districts. Special teams have stepped up operations in the Bengaluru and Mysuru city police commissionerates following large seizures in recent months. Checks have been increased near colleges, IT corridors, transport hubs and industrial areas, which police describe as vulnerable points in the drug supply chain.

Recent cases in Mysuru have highlighted shifting patterns in drug operations. A Mumbai Police team recently raided a suspected manufacturing unit on the outskirts of the city, while the Narcotics Control Bureau last month detected an illegal drug laboratory within Mysuru limits. These incidents have prompted enhanced surveillance amid concerns that production sites are moving closer to urban centres and educational clusters.

Police officials say improved intelligence gathering and frequent inspections have led to more detections. "Enhanced checks and intelligence-based operations have resulted in more cases being registered, but the figures also point to deeper drug penetration," a senior officer said.

De-addiction experts and social workers report a rise in the use of synthetic and psychotropic substances, which are easier to transport and conceal. Peer influence, easier access and changing social patterns are cited as key factors, particularly among young users. While urban areas continue to account for most NDPS cases, officials note a gradual spread into semi-urban and rural belts.

Authorities believe organised networks are attempting to expand their market by targeting students, migrant workers and other vulnerable groups. Experts stress that enforcement alone will not be sufficient and must be supported by counselling, awareness programmes and rehabilitation measures.