Marijuana - narcotic or dim?

Marijuana, also known as cannabis or ganja, is a psychoactive drug derived from the Cannabis plant. It has been used for both medicinal and recreational purposes for thousands of years, but its legality has been a controversial issue in many countries, including India. However, there has been a growing demand for the legalization of marijuana in India, and in this article, we will explore the current situation and prospects for its legalization.

History and use of Marijuana

The history of marijuana use in India goes back to ancient times, where it was used in religious ceremonies and as a medicine. It was also widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating a variety of ailments. However, the British colonial government in India in the 19th century criminalized the use of marijuana, which continued even after independence.

Health benefits of Cannabis

1- Lowering Blood pressure

2- Reducing Inflammation

3- Preventing in Drug and alcohol addiction

4- Treating anxiety disorders

5- Fighting cancer

Today, marijuana remains illegal in India under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. The possession, sale, and cultivation of marijuana are punishable offenses, and offenders can face imprisonment and fines. However, despite the legal prohibition, marijuana use remains prevalent in India, particularly among young people.

Why people demanding for the legalization of marijuana in India?

There are several reasons why there is a growing demand for the legalization of marijuana in India-

1- Many argue that the criminalization of marijuana has failed to reduce its use and has instead led to the growth of an illegal black market. Legalization would allow for regulation and control of the drug, ensuring that it is of good quality and safe for consumption.

2- Legalization would create a new industry that could generate significant revenue for the government. In countries where marijuana has been legalized, such as the United States and Canada, it has become a multi-billion dollar industry, creating thousands of jobs and boosting the economy.

3- Marijuana has several proven medicinal benefits, particularly in the treatment of chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy. Legalizing marijuana would allow patients to access it easily and safely, without having to rely on illegal sources.

States demanding for the cultivation of Marijuana

Despite the growing demand for marijuana legalization, the Indian government has been reluctant to take action. However, there have been some positive developments in recent years. In 2017, the Indian government approved the use of medical marijuana in certain cases, although the rules for its use remain strict and limited.

In addition, several states in India has taken steps towards legalization. In 2018, the state of Uttarakhand became the first in India to legalize the cultivation of hemp, a variety of cannabis that contains very low levels of THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana. The state of Jammu and Kashmir has also announced plans to legalize the cultivation and sale of marijuana for medicinal purposes. 

Conclusion

Overall, the legalization of marijuana in India remains a controversial issue, with proponents arguing for its benefits and opponents highlighting the risks of increased drug use. However, it is clear that there is growing momentum for change, and it is possible that we will see further developments in the near future.

[Tushar Deka And Dhruv Shukla - {BJMC II}]