Independent panel sought to tackle ganja menace in A.P.

Expressing serious concern at the growing ganja menace in Andhra Pradesh, the speakers at a round table meeting on “Need to curb ganja and narcotic substances”, on Friday. They also demanded the constitution of an independent Commission, headed by a retired Judge of the AP High Court, to tackle the issue effectively.

They opined that trade in ganja and narcotic substances was on the rise in Andhra Pradesh. Youth were falling prey to ganja and drugs, losing their sense of judgement and indulging in crimes. Ganja, which used to be available only in the form of a cigarette, is now being sold in the form of chocolates and glue, near schools and colleges. This indicates that the drug peddlers are keen on expanding their illegal business through innocent students.

They cited the Madanapalle incident as an example. The ganja mafia was not only resorting to attacking those coming in the way of their trade, but also eliminating them. Social worker Penchalaiah of Nellore, who had raised his voice against ganja smuggling was murdered. Ganja seizure cases in combined Visakhapatnam district has become a daily feature. There was no change in the operation of the ganja mafia despite the change of governments.

They said that the general public were wondering how the ganja trade is flourishing across the State despite strict enforcement at toll gates, by the excise department, police and EAGLE teams. They felt it was not enough to apprehend smugglers and traders and punish them.

The ganja menace should be tackled from the roots by finding out the causes for ganja cultivation, where it was being cultivated and who was behind the ganja mafia. They suggested that the government take it up as a crusade to curb the menace, by involving the public. The independent Commission should be given statutory powers.

The Commission would give recommendations on implementation of the law for prevention of ganja trade and for the implementation of NDPS Act. The areas prone to the ganja menace should be identified, and the district Collector concerned should hold a public hearing every month on the issue. They sought the establishment of special courts for quick punishment of the guilty.

This apart awareness programmes should be conducted in schools. Counselling programmes and special drives should be held. Those cultivating ganja should be severely punished to deter others from doing the same.

Dr NN Raju, Prof. V. Bala Mohan Das and former MLC M.V.S Sarma were among those who spoke. G.S. Rajeswara Rao of Alluri Vignana Kendram conducted the programme.