Panel issues advisory on ‘Strawberry Quick’ drug

The Chandigarh Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CCPCR) has issued a caveat raising concerns over alleged circulation of a new drug known as ‘Strawberry Quick’ among schoolchildren in the city.

Terming it a ‘precautionary measure’, the CCPCR has asked schools to conduct sessions and raise awareness among students about the risks of accepting unknown substances from strangers or even peers. “It’s just a precautionary measure for the safety of our students,” said Shipra Bansal, Chairperson, CCPCR. Though the CCPCR officials refused to reveal any details or specifications on the availability of the drug, sources claimed that the advisory has been issued as a precaution.

“It is brought to immediate attention regarding the circulation of a new drug known as ‘Strawberry Quick’ among schoolchildren in Chandigarh. The drug, allegedly disguised as candy in various flavours such as chocolate, peanut butter, cola, cherry, grape and orange, poses a serious risk to the health and safety of young students,” read the advisory.

What is ‘Strawberry quick’

Recently, the alleged availability of ‘Strawberry Quick’ in India raised a storm on social media.

‘Strawberry Quick’ is said to be a form of crystal meth — which resembles strawberry popsicles.

Some CBSE schools in Moodbidri, Karnataka, have reportedly alerted parents.

The substance is said to be available in multiple flavours, including chocolate, peanut butter, cola, cherry, grape, and orange.

Some reports have claimed the availability of ‘Strawberry quick’ in India to be ‘misleading’.

The panel added, “It has also come to our notice that the drug is being sold and purchased near schools, making children highly vulnerable to its addiction and harmful consequences. As a precautionary measure, it is imperative to take urgent and stringent action to curb the distribution of this dangerous substance.”

While suggesting measures over the issues, the CCPCR advised increasing police patrolling around school zones to monitor and prevent drug transactions and conducting regular inspections in and around schools to identify and eliminate potential sources of drug distribution.

The schools have been asked to organise awareness programmes for students, teachers and parents to educate them about the dangers of drug abuse. The UT Administration has been advised to encourage schools to conduct counselling sessions and inform students about the risks of accepting unknown substances from strangers or even peers.

“Given the severity of the situation, we request your immediate intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of students. We look forward to your prompt response and necessary action to address this growing concern effectively,” read the advisory issued to the Chief Secretary, Chandigarh Administration.

Meanwhile, sources claimed that the UT Administration is soon going to start an awareness campaign in this regard. The administration is likely to call a joint meeting of school authorities, including private and government institutions, and is also expected to launch checks near the schools.