Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
Amaravati, Jun 26: In a decisive push to make Andhra Pradesh a drug-free state, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday unveiled a sweeping anti-narcotics drive that includes confiscating properties of those involved in the cultivation, trafficking, or sale of illegal drugs.
Marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Naidu joined thousands in a walkathon in Guntur under the rallying cry: “No Drugs Bro.” Addressing citizens and students, he declared:
“We will not tolerate drugs in any form. Those who peddle ganja or narcotics will face property seizure and strict legal action.”
Key Measures Announced:
• Property Confiscation: Immediate seizure of assets of drug traffickers and cultivators.
• Public Reporting Tools: Launch of a WhatsApp helpline (8977781972) and toll-free number (1972) for confidential tip-offs.
• Rehabilitation Boost: 56 new de-addiction centres, including 3 world-class facilities, to be established.
• Fast-Track Justice: NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) cases to be handled by special courts in Visakhapatnam, Rajahmundry, Guntur, and Tirupati.
• School Outreach: 'Eagle Clubs' to be formed in schools to build grassroots awareness.
• Tech Integration: Use of drones and CCTV networks to monitor drug activity in hotspots.
Naidu came down hard on the previous YSRCP administration, blaming it for turning Visakhapatnam into a “ganja smuggling hub.”
“They didn’t spend a single day reviewing drug prevention. Now we’re cleaning up the mess,” he said.
He warned of rising drug abuse among youth and framed the campaign as essential for safeguarding Andhra’s future:
“Drugs are destroying lives. By 2047, we want to make the Telugu nation number one — and that begins with eliminating drugs today.”
Naidu concluded with a call to action, urging citizens to treat the anti-drug campaign not just as a policy but a people’s movement:
“This mission belongs to every parent, teacher, and student. Together, we will reclaim our future.”