Karnataka Takes the Lead in the Fight Against Drug Abuse
Bengaluru: Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan has called for a united effort to combat drug abuse across India, urging Karnataka to take the forefront in this mission. Speaking at the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan Conclave and the 31st Foundation Day of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS), he stated, “We need to raise awareness throughout our city and every district in Karnataka. Our mission is to lead the country toward a drug-free future.”
Radhakrishnan emphasized that change must begin at the individual level, highlighting the growing issue of drug addiction among the youth. He noted that many parents find it difficult to acknowledge their children’s addiction due to societal stigma. Moreover, he stressed that personal determination is essential in addressing drug problems, alongside law enforcement measures.
During the event, Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who was also in attendance, assured Radhakrishnan of the government’s commitment to establishing a drug-free state. “I believe Bengaluru will soon be completely free of drugs,” Radhakrishnan reported. “The Chief Minister has promised to take strong action against the drug trade, which is crucial for the safety of our community.”
The Vice President highlighted an inspiring moment where over 25,000 medical students gathered at Kanteerava Stadium to pledge their commitment to a drug-free life. “The vow taken by these students will inspire others, generating meaningful change in society,” he expressed.
He encouraged participants to consider their immediate environment in their fight against drugs, saying, “First, let your university be drug-free, then your city, followed by your state, leading to a drug-free India. Ultimately, we aim for a world free from drugs.”
Reflecting on his experiences as chancellor of Delhi University, Radhakrishnan noted that the institution successfully became drug-free and called upon medical students to come up with fresh ideas to tackle drug issues in the country. “We need new solutions that combine technology, counseling, and support networks, backed by evidence and research to guide policymakers,” he said. He urged collaboration among schools, colleges, families, health services, law enforcement, and community organizations to effectively combat this problem.
CM’s Commitment to Ban Intoxicating Products
Earlier, Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced that he had received reports indicating that certain gutka, pan masala, and areca nut products sold in Karnataka might contain intoxicating substances that provide a drug-like “high.” He stated that if these reports are verified, the government would impose an immediate ban on all forms of gutka, pan masala, and chewing tobacco.
Shivakumar added that while Karnataka has a dedicated Anti-Narcotics Task Force, local law enforcement efforts are limited without stronger actions against cross-border drug supply. “The drug issue is like a tap and a bucket; if the tap remains open at the border, the bucket will always fill up,” he explained.
