Punjab Police to deploy GPS-enabled anklets to track drug smugglers out on bail

The Punjab Police is preparing to introduce GPS-enabled anklets to monitor drug kingpins and repeat offenders released on bail or parole, as part of the state government's 'Yudh Nasheyan Virudh' (War Against Drugs) campaign.

The move aims to enable real-time surveillance and prevent absconding, marking a significant shift in the state's criminal justice enforcement through technology.

"We are also examining whether we can get GPS anklets for big drug smugglers once they are out on jail or parole. We are seeing its feasibility - keeping in view human rights. Bail cancellation of repeat offenders is also on the agenda. Any connivance of jail officials will not be tolerated," said Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav.

DGP Yadav cited Jammu and Kashmir as a precedent, where such anklets are already being used. In November 2023, J&K became the first region in India to equip accused under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) with GPS tracking devices. Currently, around 40 individuals are being monitored in the Union Territory.

While J&K deploys the technology for terror-related cases, Punjab intends to use it against major drug traffickers such as Jagdeep Singh alias Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, who is presently lodged in an Assam jail.

Globally, GPS anklets - also known as electronic monitors or ankle shackles - are widely used to track individuals under parole, house arrest, or immigration surveillance. The waterproof devices offer round-the-clock location tracking and are equipped with tamper alerts.

In Punjab, Station House Officers (SHOs) have been directed to obtain court approval for the deployment of these devices. A supporting legal framework is currently being developed.

As part of the crackdown, multiple FIRs have been registered and numerous arrests made. Several hawala networks associated with drug smuggling have also been dismantled.

Highlighting efforts toward de-addiction, DGP Yadav said that 5,786 individuals have been admitted to de-addiction centres across the state. To curb cross-border drug trafficking, nine new anti-drone systems have been procured.

"Meanwhile, leading the war on de-addiction, one police officer will adopt a drug addict - to ensure he is on the path to recovery. This will be purely voluntary," the DGP added.

He further noted that the anti-drug campaign will continue beyond the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led government's May 31 deadline for achieving a drug-free Punjab.

Meanwhile, opposition parties have criticised the state government, accusing the AAP of failing to fulfill its promise of a drug-free state. However, the DGP maintained that the situation has improved, with a noticeable decline in drug availability across Punjab.