In a shocking turn of events, police in Warangal apprehended a 72-year-old man for cultivating cannabis plants in his backyard. The arrest followed a raid at the Shayampet residence in Hanamkonda, conducted by the Narcotics Enforcement Wing.
Cannabis in Full Bloom
The raid revealed what seemed, at first glance, to be an ordinary house. But upon inspecting the backyard, officers discovered tall, flourishing marijuana plants. The five-foot cannabis plants, along with dry marijuana stored for sale, were meticulously arranged in the property.
Authorities were tipped off about suspicious activity at A. Venkat Narsaiah’s residence. During the operation, not only were the plants seized, but also equipment and paraphernalia used for cultivation.
Police Statement on the Arrest
Narsaiah, aged 72, was arrested on the spot and handed over to Subedari police for further action. Officials have registered a case under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
The Narcotics Enforcement Wing has assured the public that the investigation will go beyond the immediate arrest.
“We are probing whether the accused is linked to larger networks or involved in the supply chain of narcotics,” said a senior police officer.
Legal Action and Public Impact
The case has brought renewed attention to the misuse of residential properties for drug cultivation. Under the NDPS Act, the penalties for growing, possessing, or selling cannabis are stringent, and Narsaiah could face significant legal consequences if found guilty.
In recent years, authorities have cracked down on illegal cultivation across Telangana, but the involvement of a senior citizen has shocked the local community.
Cannabis Laws in India
For context, growing cannabis for personal or commercial purposes is illegal in India. The NDPS Act, 1985, governs the legal framework for drug-related offenses.
The following table summarizes cannabis-related penalties:
| Offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Cultivation of cannabis | Up to 10 years imprisonment + fine |
| Possession (small quantity) | Up to 1 year imprisonment + fine or both |
| Possession (commercial quantity) | 10-20 years imprisonment + hefty fines |
These stringent measures aim to deter individuals from engaging in the illegal drug trade.
Community Reaction
The arrest has sparked discussions in Warangal about the ease of access to narcotics and the need for vigilance. Locals expressed disbelief that such an activity could take place unnoticed in a residential area.
“It’s unsettling to think this happened right under our noses. We need to be more aware of our surroundings,” a neighbor remarked.
The incident highlights the importance of community involvement in identifying and reporting suspicious activities to curb the spread of narcotics.
