Hyderabad, 18 December 2024 (Patriotic Views): Telangana Minister Ponnam Prabhakar addressed key concerns raised by MLCs Balamuri Venkat and MS Prabhakar Rao in the Legislative Council regarding the operation of hookah centers, drug-related issues, and regulatory measures.

Minister Ponnam Prabhakar confirmed that the government has already taken a decision to ban hookah centers, and the C2PA Central Act has been sent to the President for approval. He stated that 12 hookah parlors are currently operating with permission from the High Court, emphasizing that “no one is exempt from the law.”

On the issue of drugs, the Minister revealed that cases involving cocaine are under investigation in areas such as Narsingi, Gachibowli, and Mokila. He stressed that parties held at farmhouses require proper permissions and reiterated that strict action will be taken if any illegal activities, including drug use or obscenity, are found during such events.

Clarifying the status of alcohol regulation in the state, the Minister stated that there is no alcohol prohibition in Telangana, but parties involving alcohol consumption must obtain prior permissions and pay the required duties. He assured, “Strict action will be taken if drugs or obscenity are found in parties.”

Minister Ponnam Prabhakar also underscored the government’s continuous monitoring of schools and colleges to combat drug abuse. He stressed that strict measures are being implemented to prevent drug consumption among students, warning that families are being destroyed due to drugs. He criticized previous governments for their lack of strictness in addressing drug-related issues, stating that such situations could have been avoided with better governance.

Expressing concern over the spread of drugs even in rural areas, the Minister assured that the government is committed to curbing this menace with stringent actions. He also emphasized that no exemptions will be given to political or film personalities involved in drug-related cases.

The Minister’s response highlighted the Telangana government’s firm stance on drug control and illegal activities, reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the youth and society from the devastating effects of substance abuse.