TVK Government Accuses Previous DMK of Failing to Curb Drug Culture
CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu Vikas (TVK) government on Thursday accused the previous DMK government of not taking constructive steps to curb a 'drug culture' that it said has taken deep roots in the state. Blaming widespread drug availability for the breakdown of law and order, Governor R V Arlekar made the remarks in his maiden address to the assembly.
Reading from a prepared text of the state government, the governor said the government would work diligently to make Tamil Nadu drug-free and had ordered the formation of a special drug-prevention force in every district. “This government is taking every measure necessary to completely eradicate the movement of drugs,” he said.
The government cited the recent closure of 717 retail liquor outlets near places of worship and educational institutions and said it would frame and enforce stringent rules to eradicate illicit liquor, stop illegal sales, and tightly regulate the sector.
It said it would take stringent, firm, and swift action against sexual violence against women and anti-social activities, aiming to secure maximum punishment under the law. It emphasized preserving public peace, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring safety for women and children. “The foremost ideal of this government is to preserve public peace, to uphold the rule of law, to curb crimes against women with an iron hand and to create a safe environment for women and children,” the government said.
To strengthen policing, the state said it had sanctioned 2,545 new posts and equipment for the Singappen special task force, including 319 four-wheeler patrol vehicles, 101 two-wheelers, and drones, at a cost of Rs 354 crore.
