Bengaluru: Karnataka is seeing a striking shift in the nature of drug cases involving students. While arrests for consumption are steadily declining, the number of students being arrested for allegedly supplying and peddling narcotics has surged more than sixfold in just two years — signalling a worrying change in how young people are becoming entangled in drug trade.As many as 228 students have been arrested across the state in 2026 so far for alleged drug supply and peddling, up from 36 in 2024 — a 533% rise. In contrast, arrests of students for narcotics consumption declined from 415 in 2024 to 297 in 2025 and 167 so far this year.The figures, provided by home minister Priyank Kharge in the legislative assembly recently, point to a worrying shift: student involvement in narcotics cases is moving beyond consumption and into the supply chain.The trend is heavily concentrated in Bengaluru, which accounts for 177 of the 228 students arrested statewide — nearly 78%. The city has recorded another 12 arrests for consumption, taking its total student drug-related arrests to 189.This also puts the spotlight on educational institutions, particularly high schools and colleges. In March, Bengaluru police screened students at six institutions and two hostels in Vijayanagar subdivision. Of the 585 students tested, 31 returned positive for substance use and were offered counselling and medical support.In June, govt launched ‘Operation RISE’ and ‘Beda Bro’ campaign, with over 8.3 lakh students participating in awareness activities. Chief minister DK Shivakumar said: “The longer you hide your children’s addiction, the more you destroy their future,” while Kharge urged students to “say no, even if friends insist.” The state has scaled up awareness programmes, reaching over 5.8 million students through 66,656 programmes since 2024.On enforcement, Kharge said an ADGP has been given additional charge of the state-level Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF). A proposal to empower ANTF to register FIRs and investigate drug trafficking cases is also under consideration, he said.Steps taken to control drugs* Narcotics Coordination (NCORD) committees formed at state and district levels* Monthly awareness programmes inside schools and colleges by police* Zero-narcotics zones, where constant vigilance is maintained around schools, colleges, PG hostels, and malls by a special squad* Operation RISE (Refuse, Inform, Support, Empower) and Beda Bro campaigns launched* Anti-Narcotics Day celebrated on June 26 every year* Special patrolling and surprise checks to prevent drug parties at resorts/farm houses* Awareness on crackdowns publicised through social media* Heads of schools and colleges directed to form anti-drug clubs/committees* Arrested offenders’ profiles and details systematically uploaded on the National Integrated Database on Arrested Narco Offenders (NIDAAN) portal and police IT software* Swift legal action and registration of cases against foreign nationals involved in NDPS crimesStakeholders speakThe increase in numbers is driven by organised networks of old-time peddlers who lure teenagers into drug peddling on the promise of easy money. Teens active on social media and at parties also find it easier to build and expand these networks. The average age is below 18, with students typically peddling ganja and tablets because they are easily affordable. Parents, guardians and educational institutions must keep a close watch. If a child is found using or peddling drugs, they should be treated as a victim, not a wrongdoer. Family support, regular communication and counselling can help them break away from these networks. — Raja Imam Kasim P, DCP (crime)Exposure to drugs is happening much earlier, mostly between ages 14 and 17. Many seek treatment only after something serious happens, often 3-4 years into substance use. Cannabis is highly prevalent, while access to drugs and information about them has increased. With the brain still developing, children are particularly vulnerable to peer and social media influence, affecting their education and mental health. Parents should watch for changes in sleep, appetite, academic performance, spending habits and social circles, as well as withdrawal from family. Open, non-judgmental conversations are crucial. — Mohith Rahul L, clinical psychologist at Cadabams HospitalsAwareness is key. Colleges must have anti-drug squads comprising parents, students, staff and wardens, and must conduct awareness programmes every three months. We’ve also started wellness clinics and trained master trainers in yoga and meditation. More initiatives, including social warrior teams, are under way. — Bhavan BC, vice-chancellor, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences
