Midnight Raid on EDM Hostel in Upper Dharamkot
In a major crackdown against drug peddling and illegal nightlife activities, the Kangra District Police raided a secret rave party being hosted at the EDM Hostel in Upper Dharamkot near McLeodganj, Dharamshala. Acting on specific intelligence regarding unauthorized gatherings, loud electronic music playing past permitted hours, and illegal substance use, a special police team swooped down on the property during the late-night hours of September 13–14. The sudden police raid caught dozens of revelers off guard, leading to immediate detention and extensive searches of the premises.
Four Types of Illegal Narcotics Seized During Operation
During the meticulous search of the hostel premises and personal belongings of attendees, police personnel recovered four distinct types of narcotic substances. The seized contraband included contraband chitta (heroin), opium derivative compounds, synthetic drug pills, and MDMA/LSD blotted paper sheets commonly circulated in high-end rave circles. According to senior police officials, the event was organized without obtaining mandatory permission from local administration, fire safety authorities, or local police stations. Sound equipment, lighting rigs, and electronic music setups were also impounded on the spot.
Organizers Booked Under Strict NDPS Act Provisions
Following the recovery of commercial and personal quantities of banned substances, Kangra Police registered a formal criminal case against the primary organizers of the rave party. Authorities confirmed that two key individuals involved in managing and promoting the event through private messaging groups have been booked under relevant sections of the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Additionally, several attendees were subjected to medical screening and background verification to ascertain their involvement in substance distribution networks active in the region.
Growing Scrutiny Over Unregulated Homestays and Hostels
Upper Dharamkot, often referred to as the “Tel Aviv of Himachal” due to its popularity among international tourists, has been under intense police surveillance over recurring complaints of unregulated party culture. Local residents have repeatedly voiced concern over midnight noise pollution, illegal homestay operations, and growing drug access in remote foothill hamlets. Senior officials emphasized that strict action will continue against property owners who lease out premises for illegal commercial events and drug-fueled gatherings without police verification.
