Tamil Nadu Governor Urges Strong Measures to Combat Drug and Illicit Alcohol Supply

Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi raised concerns about the state's denial of drug and illicit alcohol issues, suggesting possible connivance. He emphasised the need to disrupt the supply chain of these substances to combat the social evil effectively.

Launching a national awareness campaign on drug abuse and illicit trafficking at Raj Bhavan, Ravi highlighted the importance of civil society's role in creating awareness. He stressed that efforts must also focus on disrupting the supply side to address the problem comprehensively.

Governor's Concerns Over Drug Availability

Ravi noted that despite many parents reporting drug availability, the administration remained in denial. "First of all we should not be in denial mode. When we deny, the problem gets more complicated and it also shows that you are unwilling to face the problem," he stated during the event.

The Governor expressed disbelief that while parents were aware of drugs being sold, enforcement agencies seemed oblivious. He remarked on the seriousness of this issue, urging authorities to acknowledge and address it head-on without political interference.

International Drug Cartels and Enforcement Issues

Ravi mentioned findings by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) that heroin was being imported into Tamil Nadu from Afghanistan via Karachi and Dubai. He stressed that ignoring such threats would only exacerbate the problem.

"We can't wish away the problem by simply denying it. Problem has to be faced headlong and no politics should be involved in it," Ravi emphasised. He also highlighted the recovery of large quantities of synthetic and semi-synthetic drugs across the state as evidence of widespread drug abuse.

Tragic Consequences of Illicit Liquor

The Governor referred to recent hooch tragedies, including 60 deaths in Kallakurichi and 22 deaths in Chengalpattu and Villupuram districts last year. He criticised the quick return to normalcy after such incidents, calling it unacceptable.

Ravi pointed out that both demand and supply sides of narcotic drugs and illicit alcohol need attention. He underscored civil society's crucial role in combating this menace, as noted in a release from Raj Bhavan.

Appreciation for Civil Society Efforts

The Governor praised organisations like IRDRP Trust and MAEGA Trust for their efforts in spreading awareness about drug abuse. He encouraged them to continue their work and do more to tackle this issue.

Dr Irudayasamy, Managing Trustee of IRDRP Trust; Dr Sharansam, Medical Director at Institute of Research and Development for the Rural Poor Trust IRDRP; Dr Regina, Managing Trustee of MAEGA Trust; Dr Usha Saju, Board Trustee at IRDRP; along with members from various NGOs and volunteers attended the function.

The Governor's remarks come on the eve of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, highlighting a pressing issue that requires immediate action from both authorities and civil society.