Goa Law Minister Stirs Controversy with Drug Availability Remarks

Goa Law Minister Aleixo Sequeira inadvertently sparked controversy by stating that drugs are widely available and that no action is being taken to curb the issue. His comments led to criticism from the Opposition, with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant attempting to clarify the situation by claiming Sequeira was referring to drug availability on a global scale.

Goa Law Minister Aleixo Sequeira on Thursday caused a stir by stating that drugs are easily available everywhere, with no substantial action being taken to address the issue. This statement prompted a backlash from the Opposition, targeting the BJP-led government for its perceived failure to control drug distribution in the state.

While defending the Sunburn EDM festival, which faces criticism for alleged drug use, Sequeira remarked, ''Drugs are today available all over. You don't require Sunburn to get it.'' He emphasized the role of society in identifying drug dealers and cooperating with police, calling for joint efforts to combat the menace.

Opposition leaders seized on Sequeira's admission. AAP MLA Venzy Viegas suggested changing officials responsible for drug control, while Goa Congress vice president Sunil Kawthankar criticized the BJP government on Twitter. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant later attempted to mitigate the fallout by stating that Sequeira's comments were about global drug issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)