Village Panchayat Cracks Down on Substance Abuse: Rs 11,000 Fine for Violators
The Katorewala panchayat in has taken a strong stance against substance abuse, effectively banning the sale and consumption of tobacco, energy drinks, and other drugs within its jurisdiction. This decisive move, announced on August 2, 2025, carries a hefty penalty of Rs 11,000 for any violation.
To further strengthen the initiative, the panchayat is offering a reward of Rs 6,000 to informants who provide credible information leading to the apprehension of offenders. This significant incentive aims to encourage community participation in curbing the menace.
The resolution, passed unanimously by the panchayat, explicitly focuses on protecting the youth from the harmful effects of substance abuse. The panchayat’s bold action has already inspired similar initiatives in neighbouring villages, highlighting the growing grassroots movement against this pervasive problem.
This proactive approach by the Katorewala panchayat serves as a potent example for other local bodies across the nation. The success of this initiative could pave the way for larger-scale interventions in tackling the widespread issue of substance abuse, especially amongst vulnerable youth populations.
