Punjab Police to Introduce GPS-Enabled Anklets for Drug Smugglers on Bail, Focus on Rehabilitation and AI Tracking

In a significant move to tighten surveillance on drug traffickers, the Punjab Police is planning to implement GPS-enabled anklets for drug smugglers who are released on bail. This step is aimed at monitoring their movements and ensuring they do not return to illegal activities, according to Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav.

Drawing inspiration from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, which has adopted similar technology for monitoring those accused under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), Punjab Police is now examining the legal feasibility of rolling out GPS anklets for high-profile drug offenders. DGP Yadav emphasized that the decision will be implemented only after securing appropriate court permissions and will be handled on a case-by-case basis, keeping in mind the right to privacy.

“When an accused is granted bail, certain legal conditions are imposed. We intend to add GPS tracking as one of these conditions for notorious smugglers, but only with court orders,” Yadav explained during a press interaction.

While the focus remains on tracking hardcore drug traffickers, the DGP made it clear that small-time drug users will not be treated as criminals. Instead, efforts will be made to rehabilitate them. The Punjab Police has designed a plan to involve village elders and local panchayats in monitoring and encouraging these individuals to return to the mainstream.

“Our goal is not to punish drug users but to reform and support them. We are encouraging them to visit OAAT (Outpatient Opioid Assisted Treatment) clinics and de-addiction centers. Self-declarations will also be collected from these individuals, affirming that they will neither use nor distribute drugs,” said Yadav.

He also warned that repeat offenders would not be spared and strict legal action would be taken against them.

In a tech-driven approach to curb drug trafficking, Punjab Police is also working on developing an Artificial Intelligence (AI) software that will create a centralized database of arrested drug smugglers across districts. This will help in both backward and forward linkages, making it easier to dismantle entire networks rather than just arrest individual peddlers.

Additionally, the police department plans to establish drug de-addiction centers within jails to cater to inmates struggling with addiction. This step is expected to aid the rehabilitation process even for those already in custody.

On a related note, DGP Yadav revealed that orders for advanced anti-drone systems have been placed to combat the growing threat of drug and weapon smuggling through aerial routes. These systems are expected to be deployed by July or August, further enhancing the state’s vigilance and security infrastructure.

This multi-pronged strategy—combining legal, technological, and social measures—reflects Punjab Police’s commitment to not only fight the drug menace but also rehabilitate and reintegrate affected individuals into society.Tools