Thiruvananthapuram: Supreme Court Judge Justice Surya Kant borrowed Mohanlal’s iconic film dialogue while addressing the state-level launch of a drug awareness program.

Speaking at the event, he remarked, “As I have told those who know me, narcotics is a dirty business”.

The remark, delivered in Malayalam, received applause from the audience, which included representatives from the Excise Department and the Legal Services Authority.

Justice Surya Kant, who also serves as Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority, emphasised the need for fast-track courts to handle drug-related cases across the country.

He noted that the focus should not only be on legal action but also on rehabilitation through counseling, highlighting the importance of reintegrating individuals affected by substance abuse. He praised the Kerala government’s drug de-addiction initiatives as exemplary.

High Court Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar stressed that drugs pose a threat to society at large. Other dignitaries present at the event included Minister M.B. Rajesh, Supreme Court Judge Justice Vikram Nath, High Court Judge Justice A. Muhammad Mushtaq, Chief Secretary A. Jayathilak, Additional Chief Secretary K.R. Jyothilal, and Commonwealth Legal Education Association President Dr. S. Shivakumar.