Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy is cracking down on drug abuse in the state, promising strict action against offenders and launching initiatives to combat the growing drug menace.
Key Points
- Telangana CM Revanth Reddy pledges strict action against drug offenders, regardless of their status or influence.
- The Telangana government established the EAGLE FORCE to combat drug law violations and address the growing drug problem.
- Recent arrests of public representatives and prominent individuals demonstrate the government's commitment to tackling drug-related crimes.
- The CM highlighted the alarming trend of ganja-laced chocolates being sold near schools and the involvement of educated individuals in drug peddling.
- The 'Spandana teams' initiative will provide immediate assistance to victims of crimes, particularly women and children, affected by drug abuse.
Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Monday, citing a recent bust at a farmhouse here allegedly involving a TDP MP and a former BRS MLA, said the state government is taking strict action against law violators to curb the drug menace.
Speaking after inaugurating the city police's 'Spandana teams', he asked police officials to act swiftly and arrest anyone on the wrong side of the law, even if the person is influential.
He said his government established the EAGLE FORCE (Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement) soon after it assumed office.
Government's Stance on Drug-Related Crimes
"We don't spare anyone, even if they are public representatives or big celebrities. We don't look at their status. We are acting tough against those who commit crimes. You know that we recently arrested some public representatives and sent them to jail. We have also arrested some prominent persons," he said.
Former BRS MLA Pilot Rohith Reddy was arrested along with two others following the alleged drug bust at a farmhouse in Moinabad on the outskirts of Hyderabad in March this year.
The Alarming Rise of Drug Abuse
The CM said Punjab, which was known for producing brave soldiers who played a key role in the freedom movement and national security, has now reached a situation where recovery appears difficult due to the rampant drug problem.
According to a study, 70 per cent of Punjab's population has been affected by drugs or other vices, he said.
Even in Telangana, he said, "surprising developments" are coming to the notice of the government and police.
Ganja-laced chocolates are being sold near schools, and highly educated persons such as doctors and engineers are found to be involved in drug peddling, and some even in chain-snatching incidents, he added.
Addressing the Root Causes and Consequences
Reddy said that the consumption of intoxicating substances is emerging as "a key cause of crimes against women and children."
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla recently suggested incorporating a column in school admission forms seeking an undertaking that applicants would not abuse drugs or other intoxicating substances, the CM said.
He observed that taking action against celebrities would send a strong message, rather than merely filing cases against 1,000 people.
"File cases and ensure the person remains behind bars for a year. Then there will be responsibility and fear in society. You have to control those who do not realise their responsibility," he said.
If there is no fear and responsibility, it will lead to unchecked and irresponsible behaviour, he added.
The CM reiterated that the government would take strict action against law violators, even if the accused belonged to influential political, business, or official families.
'Spandana Teams' Initiative
Under the all-women 'Spandana teams' initiative, team members will immediately respond to emergency distress calls, reach the victims, provide assistance, and take the accused into custody if they are found at the spot.
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