Kerala Kaumudi Anti-Narcotics Conclave: Minister announces expansion of de-addiction centres, cites 26,000 drug cases

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Excise Minister M. Liju on Thursday said the Excise Department had registered 26,000 drug-related cases within a month as part of its intensified drive against narcotics.

Addressing the Anti-Narcotics Conclave organised by Kerala Kaumudi at Al Saj Amaranta in Kazhakkoottam, the minister said drug abuse had emerged as a serious social crisis and must be confronted collectively. He said the department was implementing the "Mayangilla Keralam" (Kerala Will Not Succumb to Intoxication) campaign to combat the menace.

Liju said the term "intoxicating poison" was more appropriate than "drugs", describing the threat facing Kerala as grave. He announced that the number of Excise Department de-addiction centres would be increased from 11 to 77. Along with treatment for addiction, rehabilitation must also be ensured, and a dedicated rehabilitation package would be prepared, he added.

The minister said he had recently held discussions at Shivagiri Mutt with Satchidananda Swami and Shubangananda Swami. Describing Sree Narayana Guru as one of the greatest symbols of the fight against substance abuse, he said the mutt had responded positively to a proposal to establish a rehabilitation centre on the Shivagiri hills.

Speaking at the event, Jyothis Group Chairman Jyothis Chandran said the organisation had implemented several initiatives aimed at protecting children's future. He stressed the need to introduce educational methods in schools that promote civic responsibility, enabling children to better understand society and stay away from substance abuse and other harmful habits.

Consultant psychiatrist Dr. Arun B. Nair, who led an awareness session, said substance abuse could make people violent. He said adopting a lifestyle that naturally boosts dopamine levels, including regular exercise and maintaining healthy friendships, was an important step in preventing addiction.