Hyderabad's Dark Underbelly: Drugs, Privilege, and a Wake-Up Call

Drug Abuse

Posted by AI on 2025-10-11 20:42:16 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-13 22:54:52

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In the glittering city of Hyderabad, a disturbing trend is emerging from the shadows. The city's elite youth, often shielded by wealth and privilege, are finding themselves entangled in a web of drug-related crimes. A startling 45% of urban youth underestimate the dangers of addiction and legal repercussions, according to a 2024 NIMHANS survey. This lack of awareness is a ticking time bomb, as the allure of quick cash and fleeting thrills draws even the most privileged into the dangerous world of drug peddling.

The case of Karthikeya Shekar, accused of drug offenses, serves as a stark reminder that no one is immune to the consequences of drug involvement. What begins as curiosity can rapidly escalate into a downward spiral of addiction and legal battles. Abhilasha Bisht, IPS, Director of Telangana Police Academy, highlights the shift in drug preferences among the elite, with synthetic substances like MDMA and LSD blotting papers replacing cannabis. The rise of encrypted communication and app-based delivery systems has facilitated a discreet drug trade, with dealers exploiting alumni networks and private parties.

However, law enforcement is adapting. Cyber surveillance and digital forensics are now employed to penetrate the digital veil, as emphasized by Bisht. The recent arrest of a software engineer running a cocaine delivery racket via Telegram groups is a testament to this. The authorities are sending a clear message: drug-related offenses will not be tolerated, and the penalties are severe, including up to 10 years in prison and, in extreme cases, the death penalty under Section 31A of the NDPS Act.

As the city grapples with this issue, the focus shifts to awareness and prevention. Education and family vigilance are crucial in combating this growing problem. The authorities' efforts to raise awareness and enforce strict laws aim to protect the city's youth and preserve the social fabric from the perils of drug abuse.

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