Amid push for legalization, Delhi sees 502% rise in weed-consumption
Delhi Police had a distressing time during January-April'18, when they seized 1,345 kilos of marijuana. During the corresponding period last year, it was just 223kg, meaning a whopping 502% jump. Police say cartels across India are trying hard to push it in the capital as it climbs in popularity. No wonder then, that Delhi was ranked the third-most stoned city in the world recently.
More spots near colleges becoming popular delivery hubs
Peddlers have confessed to police that weed consumption has shot up in recent times, especially among the youths, and is often sold by rickshaw-pullers and autorickshaw-drivers near colleges. Majnu ka Tila near the North Campus, some areas near the South Campus, and other places like Lajpat Nagar are popular delivery hubs. Users have a clear preference: 'Idduki Gold' (Kerala) and Andhra strain weed are favorites.
Why is it increasing?
A significant factor that has led to this increase is a growing movement pushing for legalization of weed. Youths cite online research to claim the herb is far less harmless than smoking, alcohol and synthetic drugs like cocaine. Moreover, marijuana is known to have certain medical benefits, and is a known pain-reliever which reduces side-effects of cancer. Supporters say legalization will regularize the illicit trade.
Marijuana from across India is northbound
A push by traders across India in the capital has boosted use further. Weed grown in Odisha, AP, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, especially in Naxal-affected areas like Bastar and Dantewada, is finding its way into Delhi. The liquor ban in Bihar has increased cultivation in the state. Cooch Behar, WB and Tripura are also among major growers and shippers.
Growing or using weed can land you in jail
In India, possession, trade, transport and consumption of weed is curtailed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, punishable by up to 10 years' imprisonment. Despite this, Delhi and Mumbai (6th) were ranked among the world's most stoned cities as recently as January. Karachi came second. Several politicians including Maneka Gandhi, Dr Dharamvir Gandhi and Tathagata Satpathy have batted for regularization.
Doctors warn of adverse health impact
The demand for marijuana in the capital is expected to cross 5,0000kg this year, up from the 2,417kg last year, TOI reports. But doctors have warned that contrary to popular opinion, long-term use of weed can have adverse effects on physical as well as mental health, from memory issues, anxiety and disorientation to increased risk of heart attack.
So is legalization a good idea for India?
Studies on impact of legalization in other countries say yes: drug-abuse has been observed to fall under regulation. However, to achieve optimum results, it is important that laws are implemented efficiently, particularly in a country like India, where most regulations are only seen in rulebooks.
