Brave IPS Officer Ilma Afroz Stands Tall Against Mining Mafia in Himachal Pradesh

In Himachal Pradesh, an IPS officer, Ilma Afroz, known for her integrity and bold actions, has emerged as a beacon of hope in the fight against drug cartels and the mining mafia. Her relentless efforts to curb illegal activities in Baddi, despite immense political pressure, have brought her national attention and sparked debates over governance and justice.

The Controversy Surrounding IPS Ilma Afroz

Ilma Afroz, a batch of 2017 IPS officer from Himachal Pradesh cadre, makes headlines for strict actions on illegal mining and drug trades in the industrial hub of Baddi. Her time as SP saw major crackdowns of mafias involved in destructive activities, that is, drug trafficking and mining without permission. These efforts brought her face to face with politically powerful persons, namely Congress MLA Ramkumar Chaudhary.

The controversy worsened with the reports that Ilma apparently filed cases against the MLA’s wife’s vehicles associated with her during her struggle against illegal mining. These caused political tensions as the MLA leveled allegations against her and also accused her of misusing her powers, though she continued her efforts for justifications and upholding law.

The achievements of Ilma Afroz in Baddi include:

Crackdown of drug cartels:

She undertook an anti-drug operation to rescue the children and youth from the clutches of addiction. Several drug sellers were arrested, and supply chains of these peddlers were broken.

Operational Action Against Mining Mafia

She launched a massive exercise aimed to suppress illicit mining operations that had badly embarrassed interests of the politically influential.

She opened her house for impoverished children of the locality providing for their education and extracurricular activities. This act attracted several good-hearted people towards herself as an honest police officer.

Establishing Integrity:

Ilma’s strict adherence to the law was seen when an RTI revealed that accusations of religious bias in granting gun licenses under her tenure were baseless. Of the 50 licenses verified, only two were for Muslim applicants, disproving claims of favoritism.

Ilma Afroz’s Inspirational Message to Youth

Ilma spoke at a recent college event in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh. She discussed her inspiring journey from Uttar Pradesh to Oxford University, to the United Nations, and finally to the Indian Police Service. She encouraged the students to believe in themselves and work hard, as well as to have a “Nation First” attitude.

“If I can dream of going to Oxford and achieve it, so can you. Always put India first and strive for excellence in whatever you do,” she told the students.

Challenges and Extended Leave

Facing immense political backlash and alleged pressure, Ilma was on leave from November 13, 2024. According to reports, it was at the insistence of higher authorities, who found her stance against illegal activities not too compliant. Though her leave was to continue until November 21, she extended her leave and returned to Moradabad.

The state government, headed by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has not made any comments on the issue but many believe that there are secret efforts to hush it up.

Public Support and Recognition

Ilma’s work has received widespread appreciation all over India. Her courage and commitment to social justice at a time when she had to face adversity have inspired many citizens who consider her a true icon of honest governance.