Mysuru: Additional Superintendent of Police C Mallick on Tuesday emphasized that narcotics pose a grave threat to society and called for stringent measures and widespread awareness campaigns to curb the sale and consumption of drugs. He was addressing the NCORD (National Narco Coordination Portal) committee meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner's office.
Intensive Awareness Programmes for Students
Referring to International Anti-Drug Day observed on June 26, Mallick instructed various departments to organize intensive awareness programmes throughout the month, with a special focus on college students. He stressed that educational institutions must actively participate in spreading awareness about the harmful effects of narcotics and tobacco.
Dangers of Smoking and Second-Hand Smoke
Highlighting the dangers of smoking, Mallick noted that tobacco consumption not only affects smokers but also causes severe health issues to people exposed to second-hand smoke for long hours. In view of World No Tobacco Day on May 31, he directed officials to conduct innovative and impactful awareness campaigns across the district.
Cannabis Cultivation and Inspections
Mallick warned that cannabis cultivation could be carried out secretly amidst crops like marigold. He instructed the agriculture and horticulture departments to conduct thorough inspections during field visits to detect such illegal activities.
Monitoring Private De-Addiction Centres
Expressing concern over the functioning of private de-addiction centres in the district, Mallick said authorities must monitor these centres to ensure they operate according to prescribed norms. He also recommended installing CCTV cameras in hostels to monitor student activities, behavioural changes, and food parcels brought from outside, in an effort to curb drug abuse among youngsters.
Recent NDPS Cases in Mysuru Rural
During the meeting, the excise department informed that 20 NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) cases were registered in the Mysuru rural district limits, resulting in the arrest of 14 accused persons. Officials also seized 58.3 kg of cannabis and 50 green cannabis plants during the operations.
The meeting was attended by ACP Manoj Kumar, assistant drug controllers Ashalatha and Waseem Shariff, and assistant director of Information and Public Relations department Nirmala.
