Drug case against U Prathibha MLA’s son: Narcotics Special Squad takes over investigation

Alappuzha: The government has handed over the investigation of the controversial cannabis seizure case, in which LDF MLA U Prathibha’s son and his friends were allegedly involved, to the Narcotics Special Squad. The case was initially handled by the Kuttanad Excise Range. It was earlier found that excise officials had faltered in their investigation. A report regarding this was submitted to the Joint Excise Commissioner of the southern region.

The report pointed out that the investigating officials had failed to follow procedures, including conducting the mandatory medical examination of the accused. There were also no eyewitnesses to confirm the use of cannabis. When the MLA inquired with excise officials whether her son was involved in the case, they informed her that he was not. Based on this, the MLA shared a post on social media criticising the media. The report also states that the officials misled the MLA. However, no immediate action will be taken against the officials of the Kuttanad Excise Range who had registered the case.

Only three months remain before the investigation report must be submitted to the court. If convicted, the maximum penalty could be a fine of ₹5,000. In cases involving minors, it is common practice to exempt them from punishment if they present a certificate from a de-addiction centre.

On 28 December 2024, the Kuttanad Excise team arrested nine people, including the MLA's son, from Thakazhi. Three grams of cannabis were seized from them. Cases were registered against them for possessing and using cannabis in a public place. However, U Prathibha alleged that false news was being spread and shared a post on social media, following which she also filed a complaint with the Chief Minister and the concerned department minister.

As part of the subsequent investigation, statements were recorded from the officials and the MLA. The report revealed that the three grams of cannabis were seized from two individuals, while cases were filed against the others for cannabis consumption.