Hooda blames BJP govt for growing drug crisis in state

Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has alleged that the ruling BJP government has turned Haryana from a land of milk and curd into a hub of drugs and smuggling. Hooda claimed that substances such as opium, synthetic drugs, heroin, cocaine, hashish and ganja have infiltrated every corner of the state under the BJP’s rule.

"Drug dealers have fearlessly expanded their networks across villages, streets and localities since the BJP came to power. Haryana, once known for its pure food, wrestlers and soldiers, is now identified by its drug problem," Hooda said.

Citing a report by the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment presented in the Rajya Sabha in December 2023, Hooda revealed that 16.51% of drug addicts in Haryana use opium, heroin and synthetic drugs, 11% use ganja, bhang and hashish, 5% consume narcotics intended for sleep while others use cocaine.

Hooda expressed concern about the rising drug addiction among teenagers in the state, stating, "Not only are teenagers falling prey to drugs such as bhang, ganja and cocaine, but many are also being forced into the business of drug smuggling."

He said the growing drug addiction in Haryana is evident from the surge in patients at government hospitals and de-addiction centres. "In the past five years, nearly 15 lakh people across the state have sought treatment for drug addiction. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg, as many addicts do not come forward for help and continue to ruin their lives," he added.