Authorities have witnessed a concerning rise in the use of psychotropic substances, particularly poppy straw, as recent drug seizures shed light on a growing issue. The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) has confiscated over 10,000 kg of poppy straw cleverly concealed within cattle feed over the past year, with significant amounts discovered in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.
Poppy Straw Concealed in Cattle Feed
Scope of Seizures
Most notably, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh witnessed a significant seizure this week, with over 6,000 kg of poppy straw uncovered. The modus operandi involved disguising the illicit substance within cattle feed, a tactic employed to evade detection.
Latest Seizure
In a recent incident on the Udaipur-Bhilwara highway, authorities intercepted a vehicle carrying 120 bags of cattle feed. Closer inspection revealed 267 plastic bags of poppy straw, weighing a total of 5057.300 kg. Legal procedures were followed, leading to the seizure of the illicit cargo, the arrest of one individual, and compliance with the NDPS Act, 1985.
Other Instances
Additional seizures include 1131.90 kg of poppy straw in Madhya Pradesh and prior incidents in Gujarat and on the Mandsaur-Neemuch road.
Alarming Statistics and Anti-Narcotics Operations
CBN’s Vigilance
The Central Bureau of Narcotics reported a record high of 116 seizure cases in 2023, resulting in 150 arrests and the confiscation of 70 tonnes (70,000 kg) of various drugs, including poppy straw, opium, heroin, and cannabis. Anti-narcotics operations have intensified, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Legislation and ProsecutioN
Poppy straw falls under the purview of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. Possession, sale, purchase, or use without proper authorization is subject to prosecution. Poppy straw contains a small morphine content, potentially leading to a euphoric effect if abused.
Government Initiatives and Future Challenges
Operation Prahaar
The CBN’s Operation Prahaar aimed at eradicating illicit opium fields resulted in the destruction of 10,326 hectares in Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur.
Licensing Policy
In response to the issue, the government, in its annual licensing policy for opium poppy cultivation, anticipates issuing licenses to approximately 27,000 new farmers in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
Broader Scenario
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), another central coordinating agency, has also been active, seizing substantial amounts of opium, poppy straw, and ganja in recent years.
The surge in poppy straw seizures within cattle feed underscores the challenges faced by authorities in curbing the use of psychotropic substances. The focus remains on legislative measures, intensified operations, and collaborative efforts to address this alarming trend.
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