A drug network allegedly operating under the cover of a banana plantation in Nanjangud has triggered questions over Karnataka’s intelligence and policing systems after it was detected and busted by Kerala Police, according to Mysuru–Kodagu MP Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar.
Reacting to the case, Wadiyar said it was deeply concerning that an interstate narcotics operation allegedly functioning on Karnataka soil was identified by police from a neighbouring state rather than by Karnataka Police or the local intelligence department. His comments were reported by Prajavani – Mysuru on November 11.
The MP said the incident indicated a serious failure in the state’s intelligence system and should not be treated as an isolated case. He referred to what he described as several earlier instances in which Maharashtra Police and central investigative agencies had intervened to detect organised drug networks operating in and around Mysuru.
Wadiyar questioned how the local police system failed to obtain information about an alleged narcotics operation that was being conducted under the appearance of agricultural activity. He also questioned whether repeated government assurances about tougher action against drugs and increased police surveillance had translated into effective local detection.
According to the MP, the situation raises wider questions about the systems used to identify organised narcotics networks before they expand. He asked what intelligence and surveillance arrangements are currently in place in Karnataka, why agencies from outside the state and central investigative bodies have repeatedly had to intervene in drug-related cases, and who would be held responsible for any continuing intelligence failures.
The case also highlights the coordination challenge involved in investigating criminal networks that operate across state boundaries. Kerala Police’s action in Nanjangud, as described in the report, has prompted a demand for stronger coordination between Karnataka and neighbouring states, along with a comprehensive investigation into the alleged network and its wider links.
Wadiyar urged the Karnataka government to identify and correct gaps in the intelligence system, strengthen interstate police coordination and take strict legal action against everyone found to be involved. He also called for the complete network behind the alleged drug operation to be exposed through the investigation.
The source report did not include a response from the Karnataka government or Karnataka Police to the MP’s criticism. The next steps sought by Wadiyar are a comprehensive investigation, identification of the alleged network’s members and action against officials found responsible for any confirmed lapses.
