Drug abuse in schools is a disturbing trend that is gaining momentum in the Indian state of Kerala. Reports reveal that drug mafias are targeting educational institutions, and students, especially in high schools and colleges, are becoming addicted to drugs. Shockingly, these drug peddlers are not only making children addicted to drugs but also using them for criminal activities, including smuggling and selling drugs.
According to teachers, the situation is so alarming that in a class of 60, at least ten children are addicted to drugs. Additionally, several children sell drugs to their classmates, which has created a vicious cycle of drug abuse. The most commonly sold drug in schools is LSD, which is available for as little as 100 rupees, and it offers ten hours of intoxication. The source of these drugs is said to be from Afghanistan and Africa.
Despite laws prohibiting the sale of intoxicants on school premises, the drug trade is rampant around educational institutions. The police and excise departments only intervene when drug-addicted children engage in criminal activities. Such laxity has led to a surge in drug abuse, causing grave problems among students.
The use of synthetic drugs can cause several health problems, including heart disease, memory loss, depression, anxiety, derangement of consciousness, and loss of vision. Once a student becomes addicted, they are addicted for life, which can impact their education, career, and personal life.
Kerala has now become one of the largest drug markets in the country. The city of Kochi, after Mumbai and Amritsar, is known to be the most significant drug market, with Thiruvananthapuram witnessing sales of 100 crores per month. Reports suggest that these drugs are flowing into the state from Bengaluru, and cannabis, hashish, ephedrine, methtrax, cocaine, and charas are all readily available.
Fortunately, the City Police have taken note of the situation and have successfully brought 105 drug-addicted children back to life through drug-free treatment. The police have also taken strict measures, including filing non-bailable cases against those who supply drugs to students. The assets of the accused in drug cases can be confiscated, and children will be charged only if it is a serious crime.
According to statistics, 284 students have been involved in drug cases in the last six years, with 69 cases filed against school children for drug use, and 215 cases filed against children for drug trafficking. During this period, a staggering 30,869 cases were registered.
It is concerning to note that reports suggest that drug abuse in Kerala is not just a standalone issue but has roots in the Islamisation of the state. It is alleged that Jihadis are luring the younger generation to convert to Islam by offering them drugs. This practice is particularly concerning as it involves the exploitation of young girls, who are more susceptible to the lure of free drugs.
It is alleged that these Jihadis trap girls by initially offering free drugs and then use them for sexual needs. This is not only a gross violation of their human rights but also a heinous crime. Such practices not only harm the victims but also erode the social fabric of society. This can also help to make this soil fertile for Islamic terrorism.
The recent plea filed in the Kerala High Court by the mother of an eighth-grade student is a clear indication of the gravity of the situation. The student in question had allegedly been used as a ‘drug carrier’ by the drug mafia, highlighting the disturbing trend of luring school children into drug consumption and using them for drug trafficking and other crimes.
The plea, seeking a CBI investigation into the issue, is a strong demand for justice and accountability. The involvement of school children in drug trafficking is a clear indication of the deep-rooted problem that needs to be addressed immediately. The CBI investigation can bring in a fresh perspective and uncover the truth behind the alarming trend.
It is high time that authorities take a strong stance against drug abuse and trafficking in schools. The safety and well-being of children must be the top priority, and a multidimensional approach is needed to tackle this menace. An investigation by national investigation agencies alone can bring in much-needed clarity and pave the way for further action against the drug mafia and their insidious practices. This is important especially when it is connected to Islamic terrorism in the state.
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