Institutional mechanism to be established to curb drug menace in Dakshina Kannada: Dinesh Gundu Rao

Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada District in-Charge Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced plans to have an institutional mechanism aimed at curbing drug abuse and trafficking in the district.

Addressing the media after a high-level meeting with senior police and district administration officials on Wednesday, he emphasised the need for a more assertive approach to tackling the drug issue, particularly by engaging educational institutions in a coordinated and proactive role.

"Several colleges are reluctant to take strict measures against drug-related incidents due to concerns about their image," the minister noted. "However, this is a pressing societal challenge, and educational institutions must step up. We’re working to ensure their full participation in this fight."

To further this objective, a district-wide meeting with representatives from educational institutions is scheduled for June 26, coinciding with World Anti-Drugs Day. “The time has come for educational institutions to collaborate in the public interest. Drug misuse must be recognised as a collective societal problem,” he stated.

The minister also revealed that anti-drug cells will be activated in all colleges, each overseen by a designated nodal officer. "Teachers are often the first to notice signs of distress or behavioural changes in students. Their role in identifying and supporting affected students is crucial," he added.

Highlighting logistical challenges, Rao said the current system of sending narcotics samples to Bengaluru for testing was causing procedural delays. He confirmed that steps are being taken to set up local drug testing infrastructure in Mangaluru, which will aid in quicker law enforcement and judicial processes.

The minister also reviewed matters related to laterite stone and sand mining. He directed officials to explore measures that would align the price of laterite stone in the district with that of neighbouring states to promote local stone-cutting activity.

Commenting on the National Human Rights Commission’s inquiry into alleged police action against Hindutva activists, Rao clarified there was no ill intent involved. “The police must be empowered to maintain peace and order. While excessive action is unacceptable, law enforcement must be allowed to function without undue interference,” he said.