Tollywood Speaks up After Drug Abuse Taint

Hyderabad: The film industry has always tried to refrain from commenting on rumours of drug abuse within the fraternity. But the recent drug bust in Hyderabad, Tollywood has decided to fight the menace instead of brushing it under the carpet.

A special investigation team of the Telangana Excise department has issued notices to at least 11 celebrities in the Telugu Film industry whose names were allegedly listed as clients in the mobile records of arrested peddlers.

Sources have confirmed that notices have been issued to three prominent actors, two actresses, two technicians and one producer. More names are likely to be added to the list, they added.

Speaking to CNN-News18, an investigating officer said, "The notices have been served under NDPS Act and they have been asked to appear before investigating officials by next week. Some of them have acknowledged the notice as well. The number is likely to go up.”

Navdeep, a popular Telugu actor, responded on Twitter. "It is usual to sensationalise news as soon as there are film people involved. Me being involved in events and working with some wrong event managers i can understand why this happened! Its a matter of time before this is sorted (sic)."

Leading Telugu film producer Suresh Babu said, "We do not want negative image for our industry. We will create awareness and do whatever is needed. Because of a few people, the industry is getting bad name. We will not allow this."

So far, 12 people have been arrested for peddling drugs. All those arrested are either B.Tech and MBA graduates, including an aerospace engineer who earlier worked with NASA.

The Hyderabad Police have also swung into action and banned hookah centres in the city. The police are conducting raids and shutting down all illegal hookah parlours.

After the crackdown, many schools in Hyderabad have banned mobiles phone on the premises and also advised students to be cautious while using various social media platforms. Schools are conducting counselling programs and appealing to parents to track their children’s activities.

Concerned parents have also planned a silent march on July 15 to raise awareness.