Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala
\| Photo Credit: R. K. Nithin

Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala on Wednesday formally inducted auto-rickshaw drivers in Thiruvananthapuram as ‘Toofan Warriors’ as part of expanding the community-based network of Operation Toofan, the State’s anti-drug enforcement initiative.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister termed the ongoing fight against narcotics as “a war that the society must win through collective action.” He urged the public to recognise the devastating impact of drugs, saying no parent would want their own children to fall prey to addiction and that the same concern should extend to every child in society.

Crucial role

Calling on auto-rickshaw drivers to become active partners in the campaign, Mr. Chennithala said they could play a crucial role in helping the police identify and curb drug trafficking. He stressed that the police should be viewed as “friends rather than adversaries”, as both police personnel and auto drivers “wear the khaki uniform as symbols of public service.”

The Home Minister assured the drivers that the police would not harass them unnecessarily and clarified that action would be taken only against those involved in illegal activities. He urged the drivers to act as the police’s “best friends” by sharing information on drug peddlers and supporting law enforcement efforts against narcotics.

“The police are not against you (drivers). Their duty is to maintain law and order, regulate traffic and serve the public. Auto-rickshaw drivers also have a responsibility towards society,” he said.

As part of the initiative, Mr. Chennithala distributed ‘Toofan Warrior’ badges to selected auto-rickshaw drivers who represented different police subdivisions in Thiruvananthapuram. He also urged the drivers to display Operation Toofan campaign stickers on their vehicles to spread awareness about the anti-drug movement.

State Police Chief Ravada A. Chandrasekhar and District Police Chief (Thiruvananthapuram City) Arul R.B. Krishna were among those who participated in the programme.

Published - July 22, 2026 03:57 pm IST