Drug problem in Kerala "spiraling out of control," says Priyanka Gandhi

New Delhi [India], March 30 (ANI): Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Sunday expressed concern over the growing drug problem in India, particularly in Kerala, describing it as "spiralling out of control."
She called it a major threat to the nation and emphasized the need for urgent action.
"India is facing a drug crisis. Over 2.3 crore people are trapped in opioid addiction, and 1 crore struggle with inhalant abuse--a threat to an entire generation. In Kerala, the drug menace is spiraling out of control, destroying young lives, fueling crime, and tearing families apart. We cannot stay silent," the Wayanad MP wrote in a post on X.
She expressed her support for the "Nammal Jayikkum Lahari Tholkkum" movement, which aims to spread awareness, set up de-addiction centers, and provide counseling.
"I stand with #NammalJayikkumLahariTholkkum--a movement to spread awareness, set up de-addiction centers and provide counseling. Together, we will fight this battle and reclaim our future!" she added.
Earlier this month, Congress MLA Ramesh Chennithala also expressed concerns over the Kerala government's handling of drug-related issues in the state.
Speaking out on the matter, Chennithala said, "The state government is sleeping on the issue of drugs. I wonder why it is giving political patronage to the drug mafia in the state and not eradicating it."
He pointed out the increasing violence and unrest, adding, "Such a progressive state of Kerala is witnessing killings and arson, is the government not taking any action?"
Chennithala further accused the CPI(M)'s student wing, the Students' Federation of India (SFI), of being the primary organization responsible for spreading drugs in colleges and universities, stating, "The student wing of the CPI(M), known as SFI, is the main culprit in spreading drugs in colleges and universities."
The MLA criticized the government's silence on the issue, stating that the lack of action is concerning and that urgent steps need to be taken. "The government must take action to dismantle the organization that spreads drugs," he concluded. (ANI)