Team Goemkarponn
CORTALIM: Cortalim Congress leader Olencio Simoes on Thursday expressed grave concern over the recent spate of student deaths at BITS Pilani, Goa, claiming that the tragedy has now been linked to drug abuse following the medical examination of one of the deceased students.
Speaking to reporters, Simoes said that the medical examination of student Rishi Nair had revealed the presence of three potent narcotic substances — Zolpidem (ZOLP), Methamphetamine (MAMP), and MDMA.
“This is not just a personal tragedy but a damning indictment of the growing drug culture in Cortalim, which has now become a hub for narcotics and illegal activities,” said Simoes. “The presence of such a dangerous cocktail of drugs in the system of a young student clearly indicates the scale and depth of the menace plaguing our community.”
He further said that the deaths of five students cannot be seen as isolated incidents. “These unfortunate deaths are part of a much larger, systemic problem. We cannot allow this crisis to be brushed aside with a superficial probe,” Simoes added.
The Congress leader reiterated his demand for the immediate formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). “We demand that a SIT be constituted to thoroughly investigate these incidents, dismantle the drug networks operating in and around our educational institutions, and bring the perpetrators to justice,” he said.
Calling it a matter of protecting the future of the youth, Simoes stressed the need for urgent government intervention. “This is not merely a law and order issue. It’s about safeguarding the future of our youth. The government must act with urgency and seriousness, beyond cosmetic measures. Our students deserve to live and learn in safe, drug-free environments,” he remarked.
Appealing for collective action, Simoes urged authorities, media, civil society, and educational institutions to come together to combat the growing threat. “We must work unitedly to prevent further loss of young lives. The safety and well-being of our students should be the topmost priority,” he said.
