Telangana police have started a strict campaign against drugs, which has sparked controversy, especially regarding privacy issues at pubs.
Police are now collecting urine samples from people visiting pubs, including women, to check for drug use. This has led to criticism of their approach.
Many pub-goers are upset, saying the police are disturbing their night out. They claim police are seizing DJ equipment and interrupting parties, even when everything is legal. One person said, “The police show up suddenly, causing panic among pub owners and customers.”
Another individual agreed that drug checks are necessary but said the way they are being done is too invasive. They complained about frisking near washrooms, saying, “Harassing us in the name of frisking is wrong, especially without female officers.”
A woman shared her frustration, saying, “Going out should be a way to relax after a long day. But now it feels like moral policing. Being randomly selected by male officers for a urine test is traumatising. It puts my modesty at risk.”
Another person added, “The police should protect us, not treat us like criminals. Using sniffer dogs in pubs feels like an invasion of privacy. Drugs are available outside, but the police shouldn’t invade our privacy with drug kits and dogs.”
An advocate also spoke out, saying individual rights, especially those of women, should not be violated in the name of policing. He called for clear rules to protect people’s privacy while still addressing the problem of drugs.
This crackdown began after the state’s chief minister asked the police to target drug suppliers. The narcotics bureau has introduced new handheld devices that can quickly test urine or saliva for drugs. A senior officer said, “The public should cooperate as we work to fight the drug problem.”
