Growing drug menace in M'lore needs to be checked'

Mangalore, June 28: The spread of the menace of drugs and narcotics in the state is as serious a threat as terrorism said Yogish Bhat, Deputy Speaker, Karnataka Legislative Assembly.

He was addressing media persons at the Deputy Commissioner's office on Thursday where he along with several other officials from various departments including police, environment, health, narcotics, district administration besides others, held a meeting to tackle the growing drugs menace besides other issues.

Mr. Bhat said that after discussions, a report will have to be made and submitted so that the issue could be brought up in the Assembly in the coming session and apt steps could be taken by the government.

Discussions on a range of issues concerning drug menace in the region including the check of drugs supply from Goa, Kerala and other places, enhancing dog squad services for drug detection etc besides proposals from the Narcotics and Health Deaprtments will be held, Mr. Bhat said.

Appachhu Ranjan, Madikeri MLA, said that Mangalore being an educational hub attracts students not just from Kodagu but from other parts of the world too. On the other hand, Mangalore stands second in the state as far as drug menace is concerned. Suggestions to control the menace will be considered so that apt steps are taken. Installing cameras in educational institutions is one option. Subjecting students to alcohol tests can also be considered as it will help in creating fear and awareness among the student community that would prompt them to stay away from narcotics, he said.

Compensation package for Malekudiyas

Mr. Bhat on the occasion said that the issue of providing suitable rehabilitation and compensation to Malekudiyas of Belthangady Taluk will is also being discussed.

“Rehabilitation and compensation for not just Malekudiyas but about 1400 families in the Western Ghats as a whole, is being discussed. No family would be forced to accept the compensations although we admit that in the past such instances have taken place. A report in this regard will be submitted jointly by the Revenue, Forest and Police Deaprtments as to what should be the compensation parameters”, Mr. Bhat said.

Lakya Dam

Mr. Bhat said that the officials will pay a visit to the Lakya dam site later this evening to see if the silt being deposited there could be used as an alternative for sand which is required for various purposes in the state.

The issue of arrangement of drinking water facility to Mangalore City Corporation without any objections from the Forest Department will also be addressed, he said.