Drug Menace in Kullu Needs Urgent Action; Cannabis Policy May Send Wrong Signals
SHIMLA/ KULLU: During the tenure as District & Sessions Judge, Kullu (2015-17), several cases relating to rave parties operating in Parvati Valley came before the court under the NDPS Act.
Organisers of such events faced conviction and one significant judicial intervention was the forfeiture of money seized during police raids, directing it towards the rehabilitation of drug addicts.
As Chairman of the District Legal Services Authority, Kullu, regular meetings were held with the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police and other stakeholders to ensure strict enforcement against rave parties.
Concerted action by all agencies resulted in a virtual halt to such activities during that period.
It is therefore surprising and disturbing to witness rave parties being openly advertised and organised today. This reflects a serious dereliction of responsibility on the part of the district administration.
Drug abuse in Kullu Valley has reached alarming proportions and is steadily eroding the social fabric of the region.
A well-organised network involved in cannabis cultivation and drug trafficking continues to operate in remote areas beyond Malana and along higher ridges where access remains difficult. During raids, police teams often face hostile resistance, including the rolling down of stones and boulders from elevated slopes.
Premium-quality cannabis is cultivated in these inaccessible areas and specialised chambers are reportedly used for resin extraction.
Law enforcement agencies frequently have to conduct covert operations in civilian clothing, posing as customers to gather intelligence and apprehend offenders.
Effective control of this menace requires aerial surveillance, advanced monitoring systems and substantial financial support. Without such measures, the global notoriety associated with "Malana Cream" will continue to attract illegal operators.
An equally important concern is that those arrested are often poor labourers and porters, while the masterminds behind the trade remain largely untouched.
Sustainable solutions require local communities to be taken into confidence, connected to mainstream development and provided meaningful economic opportunities.
Malana presents a unique challenge. Land settlement issues remain unresolved and were repeatedly raised by residents during legal literacy camps organised by the District Legal Services Authority.
The matter was taken up with the district administration, but no meaningful response was forthcoming. Local residents require comprehensive empowerment, better connectivity and development opportunities.
Without addressing these fundamental concerns, the system sustaining the drug economy will continue to flourish.
Recent Cabinet approval paving the way for regulated cultivation, processing and utilisation of cannabis for medical and scientific purposes also raises serious concerns.
At a time when the government is conducting an extensive campaign against drug abuse, such a policy may send contradictory signals.
The campaign is unlikely to deter the major players involved in narcotics trafficking.
Instead, there is a risk that illicit trade may expand under the cover of regulated cultivation.
This is not the appropriate time for such a policy when "Chitta" has already spread its tentacles deep into society. Public interest and public health must remain the foremost priority.
Before contemplating liberalisation of cannabis regulations, Himachal Pradesh must first focus on becoming a drug-free state.
If the government remains determined to proceed, the initiative should initially be implemented solely through a government agency on an experimental basis.
Such an approach would ensure accountability and prevent responsibility from being shifted onto the public.
Granting licences to private players at this stage could have serious social consequences and create fresh avenues for misuse.
Any relaxation in the rules must be carefully examined in light of the legislative intent behind the policy. Citizens must be given an opportunity to understand its implications and express their views.
The Fourth Estate has a critical role to play in raising awareness and ensuring informed public debate.
Strong voices are needed to safeguard public interest and prevent Himachal Pradesh from sliding deeper into the grip of the drug menace.
