On August 28, a bus from Madhya Pradesh's Mandsaur district was stopped early into its trip to Pratapgarh, Rajasthan. Police in plain clothes boarded and removed 18-year-old Sohanlal Mirasi from the bus. He was charged with illegal possession of 2.71 kilograms of opium under the NDPS Act. However, CCTV footage showed Sohanlal had no opium when detained. His family took the video to the Madhya Pradesh High Court in Indore, seeking bail. On December 5, Justice Subodh Abhyankar granted bail and called the case "rather suspicious." He summoned Mandsaur SP Vinod Kumar Meena for the next hearing. The next day, six police personnel, including the Malhargarh SHO, were suspended due to “procedural lapses” during Sohanlal's arrest. The High Court criticized the police for ignoring legal rules on search and video recording. It also asked the State Home Department to report on implementing these rules by January 12. The case shines a light on the opium belt covering parts of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. This area produces nearly 85% of India’s legal opium under licenses from the Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN). Farmers here face constant fear of wrongful arrests and extortion amid illegal opium trade. Sohanlal’s family accused police of illegal custody, torture, and demanding ₹12 lakh. They say Sohanlal, a recent school graduate planning civil service exams, was visiting a temple. Police and enforcement agencies are increasing crackdowns on smuggling in Malwa region and Mewar’s opium-producing areas. In 2025 alone, the CBN registered 145 cases under the NDPS Act. Many young men are reportedly used by smugglers to carry drugs. Residents say fear grips farmers; even holding a bag can raise suspicions. Police deny extortion claims and say arrests target genuine smugglers. They arrested key accused who sold opium to Sohanlal and questioned his multiple village visits. The black market value of opium is much higher than the fixed government rates, attracting illegal trade. Farmers earn little from this, often caught between criminals and law enforcers. Officials also note challenges such as fake IDs and encrypted communications by smugglers. The High Court’s scrutiny and ongoing investigations highlight the tense climate around legal opium farming and drug enforcement in this hotspot.