Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao has given the police and excise department a free hand to probe the high-profile drug racket that has created a sensation in Hyderabad after reports of the involvement of Telegu film actors and other celebrities.
KCR held a meeting with top officials on Sunday and instructed them to conduct a thorough investigation and take stringent measures against those supplying drugs and indulging in adulteration in the state. He assured them there will be no political interference.
“In this shady business, don’t leave any one. Any politician, even if it is a cabinet minister involved in this crime, book him. There is no place for any violation of law. Arrest the guilty even if they are rich and famous,” the CM told officials.
He said that even if the culprits belong to his party, the TRS, they should not be spared. “Register cases against them and send them to jail. The state government will not protect anyone. You have total liberty in catching the culprits,” he said.
Among those whose names have cropped up in the drug racket are 12 Tollywood personalities. Notices have been sent to three prominent actors, two actresses, a producer, and two technicians, among others. They have been asked to appear before the department between July 19 and 27. According to sources, 15 more celebrities are on the radar of the police.
The Excise department has a list of over 1,000 people in the city who are believed to be regular consumers of drugs after their names figured in the frequently contacted list of 13 drug peddlers, who were arrested recently. The list includes people from all walks of life, be it school and college going children, software employees, people in the hospitality industry and Tollywood actors.
“There is supply and use of drugs in Hyderabad for the several years now due to the indifferent attitude of the previous governments. Had they taken stringent measures, situation would have been different now. There is an urgent need to protect Hyderabad’s brand image, said KCR, adding that Hyderabad is Telangana state’s lifeline.
“This anarchy should be eradicated from Hyderabad. Take such measures that people should get frightened to consume drugs or sell them in Hyderabad. Change Hyderabad into a drug-free city,” the CM instructed. He proposed a special wing for monitoring such activities similar to a counter-intelligence wing.
Schools and parent associations in Hyderabad have also started campaigns and sensitisation programs to create more awareness about substance abuse. The Telugu Film Industry has also decided to fight against drug abuse and create awareness in the industry.
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