Medical Tests For Cannabis Users Introduced in Anantapur

ANANTAPUR: Anantapur district police have introduced medical test kits to identify cannabis users, superintendent of police P. Jagadeesh said on Tuesday.

He said the system, on the lines of drunk-and-drive enforcement, aims to detect ganja consumption using testing kits across the district.

The SP said police have been conducting awareness programmes in educational institutions, colonies and villages to educate youth on the harmful effects of cannabis. He added that legal action is being taken against those involved in transportation and sale of ganja, with repeat offenders being booked under the Preventive Detention Act.

From Tuesday, the test kits have been deployed to identify users. Those testing positive will be questioned to gather information on supply networks, he said, adding that counselling and rehabilitation measures are also being taken up.

The SP said testing will be conducted based on credible information, including cases involving suspected individuals and reports of drug use in educational institutions.

He warned that action would be taken against repeat offenders and called for public cooperation in enforcement efforts.