Debate on Marijuana Legalisation in India: Balancing Regulation, Health Implications, And Cultural Sensitivity

With the rise of the “smoking up” trend, let’s see what India’s stance is on the use of marijuana.

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The prevalence of marijuana consumption in India is undeniable, with its use depicted in popular shows and films such as Four More Shots Please and Go Goa Gone. Referred to by various names such as cannabis, ganja, charas, pot, or weed, the ease with which one can obtain marijuana, known as “scoring,” is alarming. However, as the global trend towards marijuana legalisation gains momentum, the question arises: Should India consider legalising marijuana? 

Supporters of marijuana legalisation argue that it possesses medicinal properties and can alleviate symptoms associated with certain medical conditions. Additionally, regulating its production and distribution would reduce the risk of consuming adulterated or contaminated products. However, many raise concerns about potential health risks, particularly when marijuana is consumed excessively or by vulnerable populations such as adolescents.

Research suggests that heavy marijuana use during adolescence may negatively impact cognitive development and increase the risk of mental health disorders. Therefore, striking a balance between potential medical benefits and health risks is crucial when considering legalisation.

Pros of marijuana legalisation:

Legalising marijuana in India would provide an opportunity for better regulation and control over its distribution and consumption. By implementing a legal framework, authorities can establish quality standards, ensure proper labelling, and regulate potency levels. This would help safeguard consumer safety and reduce the risk of consuming adulterated or contaminated products.

Moreover, taxation on legal marijuana sales could generate substantial revenue for the government. Furthermore, if legalisation happens, it would free up law enforcement’s time and effort to focus on more urgent issues, which would lessen the load on the justice system.

Cons of marijuana legalisation: 

One of the concerns often raised about marijuana is its potential as a gateway drug, leading individuals to experiment with more dangerous substances. While marijuana itself is not physically addictive, there is a possibility that it may foster curiosity about other illicit drugs.

The argument about whether marijuana use leads to substance abuse is still debated because several studies have not proven a direct cause-and-effect relationship. It is important to know that just because two things happen at the same time does not mean one causes the other. We also need to consider other factors like a person’s tendencies and the environment they are in, which can influence drug abuse.

India’s perception of marijuana: 

The societal perception of marijuana in India is complex. Historically, marijuana has been associated with spiritual and cultural practices, but its recreational use remains largely stigmatised. Legalising marijuana could potentially shift public perception and foster open dialogue about its risks and benefits.

Additionally, the cultural context surrounding marijuana in India, with traditions like the use of bhang during Holi, adds an additional layer of complexity to the debate. Any decision on legalisation must consider the preservation of culture while addressing public health concerns.

The debate surrounding the legalisation of marijuana in India is gaining momentum, driven by global trends, and shifting public attitudes. While legalisation offers opportunities for improved regulation and economic benefits, careful consideration must be given to the potential health implications and societal impacts.

Striking a balance between individual freedoms, public health, and cultural sensitivity is crucial. Informed discussions and inclusive dialogue will be instrumental in shaping a responsible and effective approach to marijuana legalisation in India.

People’s experience with marijuana in India: 

To get a better understanding of the effect of marijuana among pot users, I asked a few recreational users to describe their experience with it, and this is what they had to say:

User 1: Soo it’s like…there is a fear inside, what will happen, how will it feel, don’t let it go too far. But it’s like that excitement of a roller coaster. Then holding it in, taking it in, and smoking it out right is the next level learning task. In the beginning, you are very conscious, like you don’t allow yourself to enjoy it freely.

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So you have to activate your brain a lot, which ruins the fun, but how can anyone stop weed? When it starts to take effect, it’s like your heart beats very fast. It feels like everything around you has stopped and only your mind is spinning, and if a smile or laughter comes, you forget to return to normal. Then suddenly there is some unexpected incident, and then it feels normal again.

User 2: I hate it. It’s absolutely horrible. Makes me nauseous, throw up and pass out. I’ve had a completely awful experience with it, and I have absolutely no intention of trying it again. 

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User 3: It was great in the beginning, felt really energised and happy but as my consumption increased I stopped getting ‘highs’. My mood always stayed dull and I was very irritated after it wore down. My mind went blank and all I could do was sit like a dummy.

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User 4: I feel airheaded, and whatever tension exists, it goes away. The mind starts feeling light, and then it becomes relaxed. Perhaps due to this relaxation, a sense of sleepiness begins to emerge, so lying down brings a peaceful sleep.

User 5: It was bad. Bad in the sense, I could see myself messing up. I loved smoking up too much. At first I’d smoke up on occasions, then on weekends, and then everyday. Soon it wasn’t enough and I started using other substances like MDMA and cocaine. Marijuana may not be addictive, but MDMA and cocaine definitely are. 

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