Viriato says state under drug threat, Alemao for SIT probe

NT Reporter

Margao

In the wake of the recent death of a BITS Pilani student allegedly linked to substance abuse, Congress leaders have expressed grave concern over the growing drug menace in the state.

South Goa Member of Parliament Viriato Fernandes has warned against Goa turning into another ‘Udta Punjab’, while Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao has demanded the formation of a special investigation team (SIT) or a probe by a retired High Court judge into the incident. Fernandes said the incident must not be viewed in isolation. “This is not the first such case. We’ve been warning about the drug menace in Goa for years. The state is under threat, and the government must act decisively. If not, many more lives will be lost. We do not want ‘Udta Punjab’ in Goa,” Fernandes said.

He alleged that drug peddlers are operating openly across the state, including in educational institutions. “Innocent students are being trapped in this vice,”
he said.

Alemao also expressed alarm over the government’s handling of the issue. Alemao said the number of drug-related student deaths was underreported. “The LAQ said there were three deaths, but the actual number is six. Why is the government hiding these deaths?” he asked.

Alemao further said that the BITS Pilani management should be held accountable. “This is not the first case from the institute. How long will the government drag the investigation? We need answers, not delays,” he asserted.

He added that the drug menace, once restricted to beach areas, has now spread across Goa, including schools and colleges. “This administration has failed. Without political and police involvement, such activities cannot flourish. We have no faith in the current system. A serious SIT or a retired High Court judge must be appointed to probe this issue independently,” Alemao said.