`PODA' for using drugs; Strict action, termination may follow

Kochi: Kochi City Police is launching an anti-drug project targeting the private sector, starting with IT companies. 

Under the draft policy 'Policy for Prevention of Drug Abuse (PODA)', employees are required to sign agreements committing to drug-free behaviour upon joining the company. This agreement stipulates that employees may be required to undergo drug tests if requested by the employer. The testing methods involve blood, urine, and hair analysis.

The employer reserves the right to take disciplinary action against staff caught using drugs, including termination of job. 

Police Commissioner S. Syamsundar started the initiative following discussions with G Tech, an IT consortium, aiming to curb drug-related issues among those between 25 and 35 years of age. The success in Kochi could pave way for statewide implementation.

"Discussions were held with representatives from various commercial and industrial sectors, including IT companies. All parties have shown willingness to cooperate. A request has been made to the CEO of Infopark for their support in garnering consensus among IT firms," stated S Syamsundar, Commissioner of Kochi City Police.

Last year alone, Kochi reported approximately 7000 cases related to drug use. In Bengaluru, the drugs are priced at Rs 1000 per gram. But in Kochi, the drugs cost around Rs 6000- Rs 7000 per gram. Persons aged 25 to 35 years, with stable jobs and financial security, are purchasing drugs at these inflated prices. 97 per cent of the employed population in the country works in the private sector.