Goa circular for ‘drug-free zones’ near schools comes under Opposition fire: ‘Failure to protect state’s future’

The Goa government's directive for schools to establish drug-free zones within a 500-meter radius of their campuses has faced criticism from the Opposition parties. The circular, issued recently, aims to curb drug abuse among students as per the guidelines of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), and the Government of India. However, critics argue that protecting children from drugs should extend beyond 500 meters, not just within school premises.

Girish Chodankar, President of the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee, questioned the logic behind only targeting a 500-meter radius, asking what happens at 501 meters. Congress leader Amit Patkar emphasized that the directive does not address the deeper issue of Goa's drug network, instead focusing on drawing circles around schools and shifting responsibility onto school heads. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislator Venzy Viegas demanded a complete drug-free Goa, rather than just a 500-meter zone around campuses.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant defended the circular, stating that it is based on the recommendations of the NCB and aims to monitor suspicious activities near school campuses. The anti-narcotics cell is said to be vigilant on drug-related activities, and Sawant urged people not to create unnecessary confusion.