Senate Finance Committee Chairman explode a bomb accusing everyone of having drugs, while the development of the Bill and related policy faced internal disagreements
ISLAMABAD: Senate Finance Committee Chairman Saleem Mandviwalla expressed alarm over the growing consumption of cannabis in Pakistan during a recent committee meeting. Mandviwalla’s remarks highlighted a significant concern, stating, “Everyone in the country is consuming hashish.” The statement came during a session where officials from the Ministry of Science briefed the committee on the Hemp Control and Regulatory Authority Bill. Mandviwalla questioned the health implications of hashish use, prompting a response from the Ministry of Science and Technology.
Officials indicated that assessing the level of intoxication associated with hashish is crucial, noting that it currently falls into a category of recreational use. The officials presented the potential benefits of hemp cultivation, pointing out its uses in producing cotton and enhancing soil fertility. At present, hemp is grown on approximately 50,000 acres across Pakistan. They also discussed the economic potential, suggesting that legalizing hashish could generate around $5 billion in revenue, although current regulations restrict hemp’s use to hashish production only.
The development of the bill and related policy faced internal disagreements, primarily between the Ministry of Science and the Ministry of Anti-Narcotics. It was eventually determined that the Ministry of Defence would take the lead in regulating this sector. In related news, the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) has made significant drug seizures in recent operations. Last month, the ANF confiscated narcotics worth over Rs20 million, leading to the arrest of five suspects. Key operations included a major seizure on the M1 Motorway near Islamabad, where officials recovered 123.6 kilograms of opium and 108 kilograms of hashish.
Additionally, in Faisalabad, 1.5 kilograms of heroin were found with a woman, and 400 grams of crystal meth were seized near Hub River Road in Karachi. Another notable operation near a university in Karachi resulted in the recovery of 200 grams of hashish. All suspects have been charged under the Anti-Narcotics Act, and investigations are ongoing. The discussions and actions reflect a broader effort to address and regulate drug-related issues while exploring potential benefits and economic opportunities associated with hemp.
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