7.50 lakh men and 1.85 lakh women addicted to liquor, drugs: Gujarat’s underground nexus exposed

On paper, Gujarat remains a dry state. On the ground, an expanding web of liquor and narcotics is tightening its grip on the youth — fuelled by unemployment, exploitation, and an emboldened bootlegging network.

National survey data reveals a grim picture: 17.50 lakh men and 1.85 lakh women in Gujarat consume alcohol, ganja, opium, heroin, or synthetic drugs. Despite prohibition, illegal trade thrives with alleged political protection and weak enforcement — leaving an entire generation vulnerable.

Making matters worse, the government has reportedly cut grants to over 70 NGOs working on de-addiction and awareness, casting doubt on its intent.

With dangers like hooch and other fatal health hazards that come with illicit drugs, experts warn that Gujarat is sleepwalking into a deeper public-health crisis — while bootleggers and peddlers continue to flourish.

The discussions about Gujarat’s addiction problem have escalated with MLA Jignesh Mevani launching an attack on the Gujarat government, accusing the Home department of failing to curb the rising spread of alcohol and drug trafficking in the state.

He reiterated his demand for the Home minister’s resignation, alleging that despite responding to his statements, neither the Home minister nor the DGP (Director General of Police) has assured the public that drugs and liquor will be prevented from circulating in Gujarat.

Mevani claimed that drugs worth ₹64,000 crore have been seized in the state so far, and that ‘Made in Gujarat’ drugs are now beginning to surface.

He further stated that the drug trail in a recent seizure from Mizoram has been traced back to Gujarat, and that consignments are even being transported from Gujarat to other states.