Telangana Priest Held for Growing Ganja in Temple Premises, Contraband Worth Rs 70 Lakh Seized
In a startling revelation that has sent shockwaves through the community, a priest in Telangana has been apprehended by law enforcement authorities for allegedly cultivating ganja (marijuana) within the sacred confines of a temple premises. The arrest, which occurred recently, has brought to light a significant illegal operation that was being conducted under the guise of religious sanctity.
Details of the Arrest and Seizure
According to official reports, the priest was taken into custody following a tip-off that led to a thorough investigation by the local police. Upon raiding the temple premises, authorities discovered a substantial quantity of ganja plants being cultivated in a hidden area. The contraband, estimated to be worth approximately Rs 70 lakh in the illicit market, was promptly seized as evidence.
The seizure included not only the mature plants but also related equipment and materials used for cultivation, indicating a well-organized setup. This operation underscores the audacity of the accused in exploiting a place of worship for criminal activities, raising serious concerns about the misuse of religious institutions.
Community Reaction and Legal Proceedings
The news has elicited a mix of disbelief and outrage among local residents and devotees, who expressed their dismay over the desecration of the temple. Many have called for stringent action against the priest to serve as a deterrent for such acts in the future.
Legal proceedings are currently underway, with the priest facing charges under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Authorities have emphasized that this case highlights the need for increased vigilance and monitoring of religious sites to prevent similar incidents.
Broader Implications and Authorities' Response
This incident sheds light on the broader issue of drug trafficking and cultivation in Telangana, prompting calls for enhanced anti-narcotics measures. Law enforcement agencies have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on such illegal activities, regardless of the location or individuals involved.
In response to the arrest, officials have announced plans to conduct more frequent inspections of temple premises and other religious sites across the state to ensure they are not being used for unlawful purposes. This proactive approach aims to safeguard the sanctity of these places and maintain public trust.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which some individuals will go to engage in criminal enterprises, even within revered spaces. As the investigation continues, authorities are exploring possible connections to larger drug networks, indicating that this may be just the tip of the iceberg in Telangana's fight against narcotics.
