In a shocking revelation, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has sounded the alarm on Instagram, identifying the popular social media platform as a burgeoning marketplace for illegal drugs. Addressing the state legislative council during the ongoing winter session in Nagpur, Fadnavis expressed deep concern over the escalating drug-related activities on Instagram and vowed decisive action to curb this alarming trend.
Fadnavis disclosed that Instagram has transformed into a significant hub for drug transactions, with orders placed, payments made through GPay and UPI, and deliveries executed seamlessly. Responding to inquiries from legislators Mahadev Jankar, Sachin Ahir, Anil Parab, and others, Fadnavis underscored the gravity of the situation and emphasized the urgent need for measures to address this growing issue.
To combat the surge in drug trade, Fadnavis outlined concrete steps, including government engagement with courier companies for rigorous parcel scrutiny. Surprise checks, equipped with modern technology, are being conducted at courier offices to detect and curb drug-related activities. Fadnavis also highlighted the sale of drugs through the dark net, a hidden and encrypted part of the internet.
The legislative session also addressed concerns raised by legislator Sachin Ahir regarding the recent drug racket involving Lalit Patil and the removal of Sanjiv Thakur from the post of dean of Sassoon Hospital. Fadnavis assured a thorough inquiry into the matter and pledged appropriate action.
The government has initiated stringent action against 172 Nigerians involved in drug-related offenses, establishing a dedicated detention center for such individuals. Fadnavis informed the legislative council that 2,369 suspicious ‘paan’ shops near schools and colleges in Mumbai have been removed, and the government has seized 38,000 e-cigarettes. A crackdown on hookah parlors is also underway.
Leader of the opposition in the council, Ambadas Danve, raised the issue of illegal drug units operating in industries and factories that were subsequently shut down. Fadnavis acknowledged Danve’s information and assured that these closed industries were under thorough scrutiny, particularly in the context of manufacturing MD drugs involving various chemicals.
