Mangaluru City Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy has called upon students to join forces with the police through 'Operation RISE' to eliminate drug supply in educational campuses.
Key Takeaways
- Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy appealed to students to report drug peddlers.
- 'Operation RISE' aims to make educational campuses drug-free within months.
- Severe penalties include life imprisonment for peddling to juveniles.
- Anonymous reporting is enabled via QR codes and the 112 helpline.
Mangaluru: Expressing deep concern over the persistent presence of drug peddlers in Dakshina Kannada, Mangaluru City Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy has issued a clarion call to the student community. Speaking at the Father Muller Convention Centre, he emphasized that the battle against narcotics cannot be won by the police alone; it requires active participation from the youth.
During the launch of the 'Operation RISE' and 'Beda Bro' programs, Commissioner Reddy highlighted a critical reality: as long as there is a demand among students, the supply chain will continue to function. He urged students to resist the temptation and instead act as the eyes and ears of the law by using QR codes on anti-drug posters or calling 112 to provide anonymous tips regarding peddlers and consumers.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that targeting the demand side of the drug trade is more effective than merely focusing on supply. By empowering students to report illegal activities anonymously, the police can dismantle local networks that specifically target educational institutions, creating a safer environment for future generations.
'The police are empowered to act, but the students are empowered to change the culture.'
The legal framework has been tightened to deter offenders. Under Section 168 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, police are authorized to conduct random drug tests. The Commissioner warned that providing drugs to a juvenile carries a seven-year imprisonment sentence, while those found peddling to juveniles could face life imprisonment.
Historical Background
In recent years, Dakshina Kannada has seen an uptick in drug-related offenses, prompting the state government and local law enforcement to transition from reactive policing to proactive community engagement. Programs like 'Operation RISE' represent this shift toward building a collaborative defense against narcotics.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can students report drug activity without fear?
Students can use the 112 emergency number or scan QR codes on official posters to provide information completely anonymously.
2. What is the goal of 'Operation RISE'?
The primary goal is to make educational campuses drug-free within six months and the entire region drug-free within two years.