Mysuru: Legislature panel seeks stringent action against drug networks

With concerns mounting over the spread of drug networks into educational hubs like Mysuru, lawmakers on Wednesday urged authorities to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards narcotics trafficking and abuse and stressed the need for tougher enforcement.

Karnataka Legislature Committee on Subordinate Legislation Chairman and MLA Srinivas called for stringent action against drug users and peddlers and directed authorities to intensify enforcement efforts towards eliminating the sale and consumption of narcotic substances.

He was presiding over a meeting of the committee at the Zilla Panchayat auditorium here. The issue dominated the meeting, with members voicing concern over the increasing availability of narcotics in Mysuru, an educational hub and a major tourist destination.

MLC Saravana said police should focus not only on registering cases, but also on securing convictions against those involved in drug trafficking and abuse. He also stressed the need for stricter monitoring of food vendors and enforcement of hygiene standards.

MLC K. Shivakumar alleged that some roadside mobile food canteens could be used as points for the sale of narcotic substances and called for enhanced surveillance. Noting a rise in drug-related activities despite repeated seizures, he urged police to intensify checks. He also sought stricter drunken-driving enforcement along the Ring Road, where several clubs operate.

MLA Konareddy said public support was crucial in combating drug abuse and urged parents to educate children about the dangers of narcotics.

Committee member Sharanu Salagar said that Mysuru attracts students from across the country and abroad and demanded action to prevent the spread of drugs among the youth.

MLA Darshan Dhruvanarayana stressed the need to educate roadside food vendors on maintaining food quality and hygiene. He suggested creating dedicated food streets with infrastructure to ease traffic congestion besides ensuring food safety.

Apart from the drug issue, the committee directed officials to step up inspections of street-food outlets and fast-food centres to curb the use of artificial colours and ensure compliance with food safety norms. Mr. Srinivas instructed Food Safety officials to conduct surprise inspections and initiate legal action against violators.

The committee also discussed civic issues, including the need for basic amenities for farmers selling fruits and vegetables, improved sanitation facilities in markets, drinking water units, shelters for vendors and measures to prevent inconvenience to pedestrians caused by roadside encroachments.

Member and MLA Bheema Gowda, Deputy Commissioner G. Lakshmikanth Reddy, Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer S. Yukesh Kumar, Mysuru City Police Commissioner Seema Latkar, Mysuru City Corporation Commissioner Shaikh Tanveer Asif and officials from various departments attended the meeting.