Hyderabad Police Enforce ‘Zero Drugs’ Policy Ahead of New Year

With New Year celebrations approaching, the Hyderabad City Police have intensified security and enforcement measures across the city, placing a sharp focus on curbing drug use and illegal activities. City Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar, IPS , has directed all wings of the department to strictly implement a ‘Zero Drugs’ policy , warning that any violation will invite stringent action, including cancellation of licences of pubs, hotels, and restaurants .

Addressing a high-level review meeting at the Telangana Command Control Centre in Banjara Hills , the Commissioner reviewed preparedness with senior officials from H-New, Task Force, Special Branch, West Zone, CCS, and other departments. He made it clear that there would be zero tolerance towards drug consumption or trafficking during New Year festivities and stressed that maintaining public safety was the top priority.

From Friday onwards, the police have deployed special surveillance teams across the city at pubs, hotels, restaurants, and designated event venues. In addition to public celebration spots, authorities are closely monitoring service apartments, hostels, and private parties , which have increasingly emerged as venues for closed-door celebrations.

The Police Commissioner said that individuals involved in drug-related cases over the past two years are being kept under continuous surveillance. Officials have been instructed to prepare updated lists of drug suppliers and users and keep a special watch on their movements to prevent any attempts at distribution or consumption during the celebrations.

As part of strict enforcement, all pubs, hotels, and restaurants have been directed to close by 1:00 am on New Year’s Eve. CP Sajjanar warned that establishments violating the stipulated closing time or found permitting illegal activities would face severe legal action , including immediate cancellation of operating licences.

To manage large crowds and prevent untoward incidents, the city police are setting up checkposts and barricades at major public gathering points such as Maitrivanam, Necklace Road, Tank Bund, and KBR Park . Surveillance will also continue at service apartments and hostels hosting private celebrations. However, the Commissioner instructed officers to ensure that checks do not inconvenience law-abiding citizens and that festivities proceed peacefully.

In parallel with the anti-drug drive, Hyderabad Police have also intensified their drunk-driving enforcement , deploying teams at key junctions across the city. Offenders face strict penalties, including hefty fines, court appearances, possible imprisonment, and suspension or cancellation of driving licences under applicable laws.

Officials noted that the heightened enforcement comes against the backdrop of continued drug seizures and rising NDPS cases in Telangana , including busts involving high-end party drugs such as MDMA, LSD, and cocaine. Police are particularly focusing on dismantling supply networks and monitoring venues that could facilitate drug abuse.

Calling upon officers to work in close coordination, CP Sajjanar urged them to uphold discipline and professionalism to further enhance the reputation of the Hyderabad City Police. With large crowds expected to usher in the New Year, the city police have made it clear that celebrations must remain safe, lawful, and drug-free. Strict enforcement, enhanced surveillance, and coordinated policing are aimed at preventing drug abuse, drunk driving, and other violations that could endanger public safety. Authorities have urged citizens and event organizers to follow the rules, cooperate with police checks, and celebrate responsibly to ensure a peaceful and incident-free New Year for Hyderabad.