New Delhi: Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has raised alarm over the growing drug problem in India, particularly in Kerala, calling it a major threat to the nation. Describing the situation as “spiralling out of control,” she emphasised the urgent need for action.

In a post on X, the Wayanad MP stated, "India is facing a drug crisis. Over 2.3 crore people are trapped in opioid addiction, and 1 crore struggle with inhalant abuse, posing a threat to an entire generation. In Kerala, the drug menace is destroying young lives, fuelling crime, and tearing families apart. We cannot stay silent."

Vadra also expressed her support for the "Nammal Jayikkum Lahari Tholkkum" movement, which aims to raise awareness, establish de-addiction centres, and provide counselling. "I stand with #NammalJayikkumLahariTholkkum—a movement to spread awareness, set up de-addiction centres, and provide counselling. Together, we will fight this battle and reclaim our future!" she added.

The concern was echoed earlier by Congress MLA Ramesh Chennithala, who criticised the Kerala government's handling of drug-related issues. He accused the state government of "sleeping on the issue" and questioned why it was providing political patronage to the drug mafia instead of eradicating it. Chennithala also noted the rising violence and unrest in the state, with Kerala, traditionally seen as progressive, witnessing an increase in killings and arson.

Chennithala further accused the CPI(M)'s student wing, the Students' Federation of India (SFI), of being primarily responsible for the spread of drugs in colleges and universities, calling for urgent steps to dismantle the organisation behind this issue. "The government must take action to dismantle the organisation that spreads drugs," he concluded.