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As part of a nationwide crackdown on youth drug abuse, the Bengaluru city police on Wednesday conducted a large-scale drug screening in educational institutions in Vijayanagar sub-division under West division, in which 31 students tested positive for substance abuse.
More than 1,200 students were subjected to urine sampling, of which 585 samples were randomly tested. Officials confirmed that 31 samples tested positive for drug use.
Police said students who test positive will receive counseling from mental health professionals and necessary medical support. Authorities have assured that the identity and family details of those who test positive will be kept strictly confidential.
The inspections were carried out as part of the ‘Sanmitra’ initiative, a reform program launched at the behest of MA Saleem, Director General and Inspector General of Police, Karnataka, to build a drug-free society.
Officials said the ‘Sanmitra’ initiative takes a compassionate and reform approach that focuses on guidance and rehabilitation rather than punitive action, with dedicated police personnel dedicated to monitoring and supporting individuals who are going through death.
A squad led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Yatheesh N. conducted N-MASS (Narcotics Monitoring, Assistance and Screening System) checks at six educational institutions and two hostels at the center after getting no-objection approval and confirmation from the respective managements. The operation was performed with the support of doctors, technicians and staff from nearby hospitals.
Published – 05 March 2026 18:42 IST
