Some jail inmates test positive for drug abuse during checks across state

BENGALURU: The prison authorities conducted surprise drug tests in all jails across the state, and several inmates tested positive for abuse of narcotic substances. The tests were conducted using kits provided to jail doctors, who collected urine samples from the inmates.

The tests revealed that a significant number of inmates, mostly undertrials, were using drugs. The positive cases were found primarily in Bengaluru and Mysuru jails, where tests for five types of narcotics — ganja, cannabis, heroin, cocaine, and others — were conducted. In other jails, only cannabis tests were conducted.

The inmates who tested positive are being kept separately and are undergoing treatment at de-addiction centres. The authorities are planning to conduct tests for all inmates in phases, starting with a small percentage. Interestingly, the inmates tried to manipulate the tests by mixing water with their urine samples, but the authorities detected this attempt. The jail authorities are taking strict action against those involved.

The test results showed that the addiction rate was higher among undertrials compared to sentenced prisoners. The authorities will use the results to provide targeted treatment and counseling to the affected inmates. The prison authorities are taking this initiative to curb the use of narcotics within the jails and to rehabilitate the inmates struggling with addiction.