A gang from Rajasthan that had been supplying opium to members of the Rajasthani community in Hyderabad was taken back into custody after the Telangana High Court cancelled the bail granted to its key members, following an appeal by the Telangana Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement (EAGLE) Force.
In July 2025, the EAGLE Force busted the network after months of surveillance, arresting the accused with a commercial quantity of opium. Investigators found that the gang targeted migrants by luring them with false claims that opium enhanced sexual power and potency. Victims were gradually drawn into addiction, becoming dependent on the suppliers. Several later developed serious health complications and sought medical treatment.
The crackdown led to the release of 15 persons who had allegedly been held under conditions of dependency and exploitation. Given the commercial quantity involved, the accused were booked under stringent provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Investigators believed the mandatory restrictions under Section 37 of the Act would keep the accused in custody long enough for the victims to undergo de-addiction and return to normal life.
However, police said their efforts were briefly set back when the accused were granted bail within two months and allegedly resumed attempts to lure addicts. Undeterred, the EAGLE Force approached the High Court challenging the bail orders. The court allowed the petition and cancelled the bail of Savlaram Bishnoi, Hapuram Bishnoi and Lalaram Bishnoi.
In its order, the High Court observed that the trial court had granted bail without adequately considering the rigours of Section 37 of the NDPS Act. While the seizure involved a commercial quantity of contraband, the trial court had failed to assess whether the twin conditions mandated under the law were satisfied before granting bail.
EAGLE Force officials said the order, passed on the last day of 2025, reaffirmed the importance of strict enforcement of narcotics laws and marked a significant morale boost for the agency.
The EAGLE Force also appealed to citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate in the fight against drugs by reporting information related to drug peddling, consumption or trafficking, assuring confidentiality to informants and stressing the role of public participation in ensuring a drug-free Telangana.
Published – December 31, 2025 08:01 pm IST
