Chittoor launches 45-day crackdown on youth drug abuse

Chittoor district has announced a 45-day crackdown on drug abuse to protect its youth and students. District Collector Sumit Kumar and Superintendent of Police (SP) Manikantha Chandolu led a meeting with officials from various departments to create a strategic action plan. As part of this initiative, all junior colleges and higher education institutions must form anti-drug committees. These committees will monitor and prevent drug-related activities, similar to anti-ragging committees. Schools will also set up "Eagle clubs" to educate students about the risks of drugs and promote awareness. The Collector mentioned that the district's location near the borders of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka poses challenges for controlling drug trafficking. Officials have been instructed to conduct surprise inspections on buses traveling to Chennai and Bengaluru to prevent drug smuggling. SP Manikantha Chandolu emphasized the need for public vigilance, especially since traffickers are using disguised products like chocolates to attract children. Parents are urged to stay alert regarding the dangers of drug use. A confidential helpline, 1972, has been established for reporting drug-related crimes. The authorities have also increased checks at medical stores to ensure that prescription drugs are not sold without proper authorization. A district-wide raid targeting illegal sales of these medicines was conducted recently, and strict action will be taken against violators.