'Are they working properly?'; MLA U Prathibha expresses doubt into excise probe in drug-related cases

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: MLA U Prathibha expressed doubts over the procedures followed by the excise department in arresting people purported to be involved in drug-related cases.

Prathibha’s response came when Malampuzha MLA A Prabhakaran, made a taunting remark saying it was not ideal for parents to blame officials when their child gets caught in such drug-related cases. It was implicitly directed at Prathibha’s son who was recently questioned by excise over alleged drug possession.

“Are there effective measures against the spread of drug addiction in schools? Are inclusive programs being implemented in schools? Are Excise officials doing enough inspections before heading for arrest?” asked MLA Prathibha.

Meanwhile, Minister M B Rajesh dismissed rumours of Kerala slowly becoming the drug hub of India. Minister said the state was the first in the country to prevent drug addiction by following effective measures.

In Kerala, 24,517 people were arrested in drug-related cases. This is the highest in the country. In the state, the conviction rate in cases of intoxication is 98.9%. The national average is 78%. 25.6% in Telangana and 82.9% in Tamil Nadu.