Panaji: In 2024, India recorded nearly 90,000 NDPS cases, over 1.16 lakh arrests, and more than 13 lakh kg of contraband was seized, said Supreme Court judge Justice J K Maheshwari. “In Goa, 169 NDPS cases were registered in the same year,” he said, adding that these numbers reflect not only determined enforcement but also indicate that supply adapts.Supreme Court judge Justice Manmohan said the drug menace not only affects the physical and mental health of drug consumers, but also affects the family and community at large.“Goa is such a beautiful place; you have such a beautiful climate. You have sun throughout the year, the monsoon, which is also a beautiful phase in Goa. I suggest you enjoy your nature and not depend on these artificial stimulants for any kick or any ecstasy. Believe in nature; that’s the best healing factor,” he said, appealing to schools, colleges, panchayats, and other institutions to continue spreading the message that drug abuse is a very serious issue which can affect the community at large.“We have no other option but to tackle it. We have to ensure that the most important resource of society, ie the human being, is available for the development of society,” he said.Bombay high court Chief Justice Shree Chandrashekhar said the drug menace is one such evil, subtle in its entry, devastating in its impact, and far-reaching in its consequences. “Drugs do not merely impair the body; they erode character, weaken wealth, fracture families, and hollow out societies from within. What often begins as curiosity or experimentation gradually transforms into dependency, despair, and loss of purpose. The youth who should be the bearer of hope and innovation become the most vulnerable victims of this menace. Drug abuse is not an isolated personal choice; it is a social tragedy with devastating implications. It undermines public health, fuels crime, and places enormous strains on family, community, and institutions,” he said.Chief minister Pramod Sawant on Sunday said Goa govt has zero tolerance towards drugs.“Our police force and anti-narcotics cell act decisively. Drug traffickers are arrested, networks are being broken, and our State is under strict surveillance supported by central agencies and modern technologies. Anyone involved with drug peddling will be dealt with strict action. There will be no compromise,” Sawant said at the concluding ceremony of the first phase of the 30-day special awareness campaign on drug abuse.
