On the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu shared a message on social media platform X. He emphasized that the government is committed to stopping drug abuse. According to him the fight against drugs is a fight to protect the future of people. The state government is still working hard to stop drug trafficking. The Chief Minister also assured that those involved in the drug trade will be punished.
Critics Question Unfulfilled Election Promise
However the Chief Ministers statement has been criticized by activists and representatives of various public organizations. They remembered the election promise made by the ruling coalition to make Andhra Pradesh cannabis-free within the 100 days of coming to power. They argued that this promise has not been fulfilled.
The critics said that cannabis consumption and illegal trafficking have increased, not decreased, compared to years. They questioned whether the governments anti-drug campaign is really working.
Concerns Over Rising Drug Cases
Critics also said that not cannabis-related offences but also cases involving other narcotic substances have increased during the present governments tenure. They argued that this shows that the government is not effectively stopping the growing drug problem in the state.
There is concern over incidents involving young people being caught in drug-related cases in major cities such as Vijayawada and Guntur. Social observers said these incidents raise questions about the effectiveness of the governments enforcement measures.
Allegations Over Action Against Ruling Party MP
The controversy has also been fueled by allegations involving Eluru MP Putta Mahesh. Critics claimed that despite media reports suggesting that he tested positive in connection with a drug-related case in Hyderabad no action has been taken against him far.
They argued that while the government is actively promoting anti-drug awareness campaigns on media with slogans such as “Say No to Drugs ” its failure to take action against public representatives facing allegations raises questions about its commitment and consistency in addressing the issue.
Opposition and Public Questions Continue
With the government reiterating its commitment to eliminating drug trafficking, opposition parties and civil society groups continue to question whether its actions match its statements. They insisted that strict enforcement should apply equally to everyone irrespective of affiliation if the state is serious, about eradicating the drug menace.
