Why Indian Media Hates Cannabis: A Closer Look

The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1985 banned some parts of the cannabis plant in India. But, it's curious that they didn't ban the leaves1. Even with this exception, Indian media often paints cannabis as a harmful and illegal drug. We'll dive into why this attitude exists. We'll discuss cultural and legal factors, along with how the spread of false information has influenced opinions on cannabis use in India. Why Indian Media Hates Cannabis: A Closer Look

Key Takeaways

• The Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1985 allows for the legal consumption of certain parts of the cannabis plant in India.

• There are over 200 government-approved bhang shops in Varanasi, showcasing the traditional significance of cannabis in Indian culture1.

• Bollywood celebrities are rumored to be consumers of various illicit drugs, including cocaine and marijuana, but concrete data is lacking2.

• The Indian media's negative portrayal of cannabis has contributed to the stigmatization and criminalization of the substance in the country.

• Balanced reporting and education on the potential benefits of regulated cannabis use could help shift the public's perception towards a more informed and nuanced understanding.

• 
  

Introduction to Cannabis in India

Historical and Cultural Significance

In India, cannabis has always been a part of cultural and religious practices3. The plant, in forms such as bhang, ganja, and charas, is a key figure in celebrations and rituals. This tradition dates back centuries, with texts from Hindu scriptures and Ayurveda mentioning the use of cannabis3.

The Ebers Papyrus, from Egypt around 1500 BCE, talks about using hemp oil medicinally3. Even ancient Assyrians, Egyptians, and Hebrews burned cannabis as incense by 1000 BC3.

Indian tradition and mythology deeply connect with cannabis3. For example, Greek stories mention a powerful drug that fights sorrow, possibly referring to the effects of cannabis. Herodotus writes about the Dacians and Scythians, who burned cannabis seeds for its effects3. The prehistoric word "hemp" finds its roots in Old English, showing its use by early Germanic tribes3.

Current Legal Status and Regulations

The current laws in India, however, severely restrict cannabis3. The NDPS Act from 1985 forbids the planting, owning, selling, or moving of the plant without proper permission3. There are just a few exceptions for medical and research purposes. This creates a tangled legal situation about cannabis usage in the country, which sparks talks and debates for its legalization or decriminalization.

Still, India does allow the making of bhang, a cannabis concoction, during certain festive times like Holi3. But, possession and trade of certain cannabis types, like ganja and charas, are not legal3.

Such a varying legal stance on cannabis in India sparks continuous debates and controversies. Supporters aim for wider acceptance and legalization, while others worry about the possible harm from its use3. So, looking forward, it will be very interesting to see how the laws develop over time.

Indian Media's Portrayal of Cannabis

The Indian media mostly talks about cannabis in a bad way4. They often say it's dangerous and can make people do bad things5. Because of this, people who use cannabis are looked down on. It's hard to have a clear, fact-based talk about the good and bad sides of cannabis.

The media show cannabis in a bad light because of the "war on drugs" idea5. Many South Asians have felt pressure to not talk about using cannabis because of this idea5. But, more and more people are fighting these old ideas and calling for a fair discussion about cannabis.

Negative Stereotypes and Misinformation

For a long time, the Indian media has been saying bad things about cannabis6. For example, in the case of the movie "Ganja Shankar," filmmakers were warned not to show the use or sale of drugs in a fun way6. The warning was to protect young people and make sure movies don’t make drugs seem cool.

All this bad press about cannabis has affected what people think4. Since the UN 2019 report, more people in India are using drugs4. Some blame this on how drugs are seen in the media, music, and movies.

What the media says has a big impact on what the government does and how people see things5. The US government even played a part in making cannabis illegal in India in 19855. The negative view of cannabis use is still strong, affecting even places where it has been used for good reasons for a long time5.

Reasons Behind the Anti-Cannabis Narrative

The Indian media often shows cannabis in a negative light, thanks to many reasons7. This includes the country joining a UN convention in 1961 that made cannabis illegal7. Western countries, especially the U.S., also put pressure on India to follow their negative views7. This led to India's media and government sharing a mostly negative view of cannabis.

The strong wave of anti-cannabis in India comes from past racist laws in the West8. Acts like the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 in the U.S. had hidden economic motives7. The media played a big role too, spreading bad messages about cannabis to its people7.

The War on Drugs in the U.S., started by Nixon in the 70s, hit Black men hard7. This wrongfully boosted the belief that cannabis is extremely dangerous7. Even though modern research shows cannabis could have medical uses, the laws have stayed the same for almost 50 years7.

In India, there are long-standing negative views about cannabis, linked to specific groups8. The drug became linked to jazz in the U.S. in the 1900s, which some saw as a threat to their way of life. This led to a big push to make cannabis seem very bad8. These efforts and biases still influence how people see cannabis in India today.

The anti-cannabis sentiment in India is made up of many parts, including cultural views and pressure from others78. To change this and offer a more fair view, we need to look at history and question the old views7. Understanding the past can help us overcome the challenges of false stigma around cannabis in India.

Impact of Media Bias on Public Perception

The Indian media often talks about cannabis as if it's very harmful and illegal9. This way of reporting has deeply affected how people see and understand the plant. Many see those who use cannabis in a bad light, linking it to crime and ruining society910.

There's very little news that talks about the health benefits of cannabis10. Because of this, most people don't really understand much about it. Around 60% of people in a recent survey think the news they see is unfairly against cannabis10. Only 30% think it's fair.

Stigmatization and Lack of Education

The negative news about cannabis does a lot of harm. It helps keep a bad image about it and stops people from learning the truth. Things like violence on social media also make this worse11.

Recently, some people from right-wing groups in India were caught. They were related to violence and it shows we need to stop this sort of attack together. The focus should be on stopping violent ideas from spreading11.

"The media's biased coverage of cannabis has had a lasting impact on public perception, perpetuating harmful stigma and restricting much-needed educational opportunities."

To fix this, we need more news that is fair and true about cannabis. This can help break the wrong ideas spread by the media over time91011.,,

The Case for Cannabis Legalization

In India, there's a push to legalize cannabis, despite current laws and media concerns. Research shows it's less harmful than alcohol and tobacco12. Legalizing it could create jobs and boost tax income13. Plus, its medicinal uses could help many people12.

Cannabis has deep roots in India's history, found in ancient texts. Medical use goes back to 600 BCE12. But, in 1961, global leaders labeled it a dangerous drug. India disagreed, citing its deep cultural ties12.

India's laws on cannabis vary by region. Some places allow growing hemp under certain rules13. The country also lets people use hemp in food with the right approvals, showing it values the plant's health benefits13.

Potential Benefits of Cannabis Legalization in India

• Reduce stigma and improve access to de-addiction services

• Generate significant tax revenue for the government

• Create economic opportunities in the agriculture and hemp industries

• Expand the availability of medical and therapeutic applications of cannabis

Many nations are moving to legalize cannabis. Countries like Canada, Mexico, and Thailand are paving the way13. The global market for hemp and its products is huge, signaling great financial prospects for India13.

India's laws on cannabis need updating, as seen from the NDPS Act of 198513. Progress is being made by private groups to inform people about cannabis issues and benefits13.

There are strong economic reasons to legalize cannabis in India. The country's weather is great for growing it, promising many benefits and jobs13. Plus, the government could earn a lot from taxes, especially Delhi14.

Criminalizing cannabis hurts the poor and leads to unsafe use14. Legalizing it could end these problems, making it better for everyone's health and safety14.

"Legalizing cannabis could be a win-win situation for India, providing economic opportunities, improving public health, and aligning with the country's cultural and historical heritage." - Cannabis Advocacy Expert

As more evidence and global movements emerge, the argument for cannabis legalization in India becomes stronger. By updating old views and using cannabis wisely, India can benefit greatly. It also sets a smarter and fairer way to manage drugs121314.

Potential Benefits of Regulated Cannabis Industry

The legalization and regulation of the cannabis industry in India could unlock a wealth of economic and medical opportunities. The global hemp market is worth nearly a trillion dollars. Yet, India hasn't fully used this potential due to its legal limits15. Legalizing cannabis could lead to more jobs in agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. It would also bring in important tax money for the government15.

Economic Opportunities

India's cannabis industry could significantly boost the economy. It would encourage new businesses, create jobs, and help the country's economy grow15. The legal sector might offer thousands of jobs, especially in growing, processing, and selling15. Also, taxing cannabis could fund public services and build infrastructure15.

Medicinal and Therapeutic Applications

Besides the money, legalizing cannabis could bring medical benefits. Compounds like CBD and THC can help with health issues like pain, seizures, and multiple sclerosis15. Adding cannabis to traditional medical practices could improve people's health. It also broadens India's healthcare options15.

"The legalization of cannabis could create new job opportunities in the agriculture, manufacturing, and retail sectors, while also generating significant tax revenue for the government."

A regulated cannabis industry in India has many potential benefits, including economic and health advantages16. With the right approach, India can make the most of these benefits. This can change society for the better in several ways161517.

why Indian media hates cannabis

In 1961, India chose to join the UN's drug pact which banned cannabis use13. This decision came from pressure by Western countries, mainly the U.S. Since then, weed has been illegal in India13. Even though weed is culturally and religiously meaningful, the government's move made media see it as a risky drug.

India's media doesn't like weed for many reasons. It includes culture, history, and worldwide drug rules13. Some parts of India allow growing hemp under special laws13. But, most media messages about weed are scary and negative.

India is good for growing cannabis, which could help the economy13. The plant's fibers can make different things, offering jobs and business chances. Still, because of how the media talks about it, people often think cannabis is dangerous. This harms the plant's use for medicine or other positive reasons.

The country allows using hemp in food and with proper permits13. But, laws are not clear everywhere, so some states use these rules differently13. Yet, a lot of the media keeps telling us that cannabis is bad for us, making it hard for real facts to come out.

The tough laws and global drug views have heavily affected how the media talks about weed in India13. Some folks want laws to be more understanding and open about cannabis13. But, most of the media doesn't change what they say, still painting a bad picture of the plant.

Media plays a big part in what we think and what the government decides14. If weed were legal, it could mean a lot of tax money for India. Just in Delhi, the government could get 725 crore a year14. Many countries are now making weed legal, like Canada and Mexico13. This growing acceptance globally shows the Indian media might need to talk more fairly about weed.

"Cannabis is considered one of the most sacred plants in Indian culture and is connected to Lord Shiva due to its spiritual significance."18

Despite its cultural and spiritual role, Indian media often makes weed out to be very bad18. The fourth Veda says it helps with worry, showing it's seen as good for your health18. Lord Shiva, a key god in Hinduism, is linked to cannabis through a drink called Bhang18.

The global view on weed is changing to be more open and based on facts13. India's media can help by giving a fairer view. This could break the myths about weed and show its true benefits for India131418.

Role of Media in Shaping Drug Policies

The Indian media plays a big part in how people see cannabis. Its stories affect the country's drug rules and what lawmakers think about it19. Sadly, by spreading myths and bad information, the media has helped keep strict bans on cannabis. So, talking about making it legal or regulated is hard for many lawmakers19. This lack of open conversation adds to the problem. It makes it tough to talk openly and with facts about cannabis issues in India.

Influence on Lawmakers and Legislation

The media shapes what lawmakers think and do about cannabis in India19. Because the media often shows cannabis in a bad light, many lawmakers stay away from the topic. They see cannabis as a big risk and harmful19. Thus, the rules stay strict, stopping possible research, medical benefits, and chances for safe business opportunities.

The media's impact on what people think and on how laws are made is huge19. By spreading bad stereotypes and not talking about cannabis' good sides, the media keeps the strict laws in place in India19. This affects millions of Indians who might benefit from a more forward-thinking cannabis policy.

As the world talks more about cannabis, the Indian media has a big role to play. It should aim for balanced and informative coverage19. Sharing the plant's true benefits, both medical and economic, and starting real talks with lawmakers can lead to better, more open drug policies in India19.

Countering Misinformation and Myths

The Indian media sometimes paints a negative picture of cannabis. This leads to many wrong ideas in the public. To fight this, we should spread true facts about cannabis. This includes talking about its possible health benefits and the risks of using it20. Also, teaching people and talking to leaders helps everyone understand the topic better.

India has a lot of media, with tons of magazines, TV shows, radio stations, and internet users20. Sadly, the information about cannabis usually isn't fair or true. This makes many people think bad things about the plant. The key is to share information that gives a full view of cannabis's uses.

1. Debunking Cannabis Myths: Some false beliefs about cannabis, like it makes people violent or leads to other drugs, have been proven wrong by science20. It's up to media to tell the truth by using good sources. This way, people can talk about cannabis based on what's really known.

2. Highlighting Medicinal and Therapeutic Benefits: Media should talk about how cannabis can help with health problems like pain, epilepsy, and opioid addiction20. This shows cannabis isn't just for fun but can be serious medicine. It makes people see the plant in a new light.

3. Engaging with Policymakers and Experts: To share the best information, media should talk to experts and government officials who know about cannabis20. This team effort ensures news about cannabis is true and helpful. It can lead to better, fact-based laws about cannabis in India.

The Indian media can change its approach to talking about cannabis. By being fair and detailed, they can beat false information and help everyone understand better20. This can lead to fairer laws and a better view of cannabis in India.

"Misinformation and disinformation related to Kashmir have been prevalent, with instances of fake news sharing images from other conflicts to fuel unrest in the region."21

False news and made-up stories in Indian media are a big problem21. They can harm how people think and talk about important issues, like a law or what's happening in Kashmir21. To solve this, media needs to be careful. They should always check if what they're sharing is true. And it's important to teach people how to spot fake news online.

Metric	Data Point
Social Media Fake News Handles	Indian security and intelligence agencies identified around 5000 social media handles from Pakistan spreading fake propaganda related to the Citizenship Amendment Act21.
Fake News Websites	A study by the EU DisinfoLab found that there were at least 265 fake local news websites managed by Indian influence networks aiming to influence international institutions and sway public perception of Pakistan in 201921. By 2020, the number of pro-India fake news websites grew to 750 across 116 countries21.
Internet Shutdowns	There were 95 internet shutdowns in India in 2019 to control fake news propagation22.
Impact of Fake News	A single medical-related fake news claim resulted in at least 800 deaths and 5800 hospitalizations22. Social media fake news detection capacity increased by 12% during the COVID-19 pandemic in India22.

The facts show that fake news and misinformation are big problems in India202122. To fight this, media must put checking facts first and work with others. They should also help people learn how to tell what's true online. In this way, media can make sure their stories help everyone understand the truth about cannabis and other important topics.

Success Stories from Legalized Cannabis Markets

More and more countries are legalizing and regulating cannabis. They take examples from places like Canada. Since Canada allowed cannabis use, its industry has flourished. It has brought a lot of new jobs and tax money23.

Places like Israel and Australia are using cannabis as medicine. They've found many good uses for it. For example, it can help with glaucoma, slow down spread of cancer, and lower anxiety. It also helps with Alzheimer's and can boost metabolism23.

Back in the late 1800s, India looked into cannabis growing. They found only 6,000 acres were used for drugs. By 1935 though, it was down to 1,600 acres. Now, it's even less, about 800 acres. So, even with a ban, lots of cannabis is still being grown in India23.

When it comes to being addictive, marijuana is not as bad as tobacco or alcohol. In the U.S., about 9 to 10% of people who use marijuana may become dependent. But chances of addiction are higher with cocaine and heroin for those who use them24.

The cannabis industry, if well regulated, could really help India. It could create jobs, boost the economy, and improve health care. If India learns from others' success, they could have a positive drug policy. This would be good for the nation and its people.

"Moderate marijuana consumption is considered less harmful than tobacco and alcohol, with numerous medical benefits."

The Way Forward: Balanced Reporting and Education

The Indian media's view on cannabis is often negative. This leads to misunderstandings among the public. To change this, we need a multi-faceted approach. We should aim for balanced, factual reporting. This should highlight the various aspects of cannabis. Also, we must work on educating the public and involving policymakers.

By improving how we talk about cannabis, we can make things better. We aim to lower the stigma around the plant. This prepares us for important policy changes. These changes will consider both the good and bad sides of cannabis.

The media has a big influence on what people think and what choices leaders make25. Research proves that making up stories and spreading misinformation online confuses people. This leads to keeping up old, wrong views about cannabis25.

So, Indian media needs to do better about reporting on cannabis. They should show the full picture and be based on facts. This means focusing on balanced reporting. They should also work on cannabis education and correct the myths about it. This relates to its uses and the laws around it26.

Working closely with policymakers is also key. This ensures cannabis laws and rules are based on science. They should think about public health and not be influenced by old ideas or politics27.

With a more fair and helpful attitude, Indian media can make a real difference. They can lessen the wrong views about cannabis. This prepares the ground for changes in policy. Changes that are good for the Indian people26.

"The media has the power to shape public discourse and influence policymakers on complex issues like cannabis legalization. It's time for a more balanced and informed approach that prioritizes public education and evidence-based decision-making."

Conclusion

The Indian media's view on cannabis affects how people see it in India. This has led to the plant staying illegal and users being looked down upon28. Yet, with more countries making it legal, India has a chance to rethink its stance29.

By showing both sides and teaching the public the truth, we could change how people feel about cannabis30. This would help government leaders see that there are medical benefits and money to be made in a regulated market29.

India faces tough decisions on cannabis. Media, lawmakers, and the public need to join forces for good decisions based on facts, not fear28. This might lead to a future in India where cannabis is handled like other regulated drugs, fairly and wisely.

FAQ

What is the historical and cultural significance of cannabis in India?

Cannabis holds a long history in India, revered in both sacred and literary works for millennia. Variants like bhang, ganja, and charas are mentioned in ancient Hindu texts. Ayurvedic literature also notes their use.

What is the current legal status of cannabis in India?

The law in India regards cannabis strictly since 1985. The NDPS Act makes growing, owning, selling, or moving it illegal, save for some medical or research uses.

How has the Indian media portrayed cannabis?

Indian media often paints cannabis in a bad light. It echoes myths and misconceptions about the drug. This leads to a view of cannabis as a harmful, addictive, criminal substance.

What are the reasons behind the Indian media's anti-cannabis narrative?

The media’s stance stems from entrenched cultural biases and global drug views. Although traditionally significant in India, aligning with the UN’s 1961 drug convention led to its demonization.

How has the Indian media's portrayal of cannabis impacted public perception and understanding of the drug?

This negative light has made most people see cannabis as tied to crime and societal downfall. The absence of focused education on its positive medical uses has also left the public uninformed about its full potential.

What are the potential benefits of legalizing and regulating the cannabis industry in India?

By legalizing and controlling cannabis, India stands to see economic growth. This includes job creation and new tax income. Moreover, the plant's medicinal values can boost public health.

How can the Indian media's negative portrayal of cannabis be addressed?

Dispelling unfounded beliefs and misinformation through accurate, comprehensive media coverage is key. Highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of cannabis, alongside its medical uses, can help change public perception.

Source Links

1. https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20170307-the-intoxicating-drug-of-an-indian-god - The ‘holy' drug authorities ignore

2. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/bollywoods-love-and-hate-story-with-drugs-exposed-/articleshow/78188327.cms - The Big Story: Bollywood’s love-hate relationship with drugs! | Hindi Movie News - Times of India

3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_and_religion - Cannabis and religion

4. https://www.vice.com/en/article/7xgjma/question-of-the-day-why-has-indias-drug-use-gone-up - Question of the Day: Why Has India’s Drug Use Gone Up?

5. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/south-asian-weed-stigma_n_6333547fe4b03e8038b7ebb3 - South Asian Americans Are Coming Out Of The Weed Closet

6. https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/dont-glamourise-drug-use-anti-narcotics-bureau-sends-notice-to-filmmakers-of-ganja-shankar-to-change-film-title/article67860208.ece - ‘Don’t glamourise drug use’: Anti Narcotics Bureau sends notice to filmmakers of Ganja Shankar to change film title

7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7173675/ - Racism and Its Effect on Cannabis Research

8. https://medium.com/equityorg/reefer-madness-the-racist-roots-of-marijuana-prohibition-37b9e7fb7d6c - Reefer Madness: The Racist Origins of Marijuana Prohibition

9. https://iica.nic.in/images/FoirNews/DrAbha-Political_influence.pdf - PDF

10. http://www.ijpmonline.com/index.php/ojs/article/download/12/10 - PDF

11. https://www.orfonline.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/ORF_OccasionalPaper_167_DigitalHatred.pdf - OP#167-corrected

12. https://theleaflet.in/why-are-we-persecuting-rhea-chakraborty-when-demands-for-legalisation-of-cannabis-are-growing/ - Why are we persecuting Rhea Chakraborty when Demands for Legalisation of Cannabis are Growing? – The Leaflet

13. https://theleaflet.in/it-is-high-time-we-legalise-and-regulate-cannabis-in-india/ - It is high time we legalise and regulate cannabis in India – The Leaflet

14. https://theprint.in/opinion/let-rhea-chakraborty-smoke-weed-in-peace-legalise-cannabis-end-the-hypocrisy/495960/ - Let Rhea Chakraborty smoke weed in peace — legalise cannabis, end the hypocrisy

15. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6181739/ - Legalization, Decriminalization & Medicinal Use of Cannabis: A Scientific and Public Health Perspective

16. https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/publications/drugs-medication/legislative-review-cannabis-act-final-report-expert-panel.html - Legislative Review of the Cannabis Act: Final Report of the Expert Panel

17. https://komonews.com/news/helping-kids-in-crisis/lawmakers-look-at-marijuana-use-and-mental-health-issues-in-young-people-high-potency-cannabis-product-regulation-lawmakers-doctor-brain-development-25-tolerance-washington-rep-lauren-davis-drugs-smoking-mental-health-issues-psychosis-schizophrenia - Should high-potency cannabis products be regulated differently in Washington state?

18. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/readersblog/mamta-rana/shiva-and-the-cannabis-6941/ - Shiva and the cannabis

19. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3043457/ - Body Image, Acculturation, and Substance Abuse Among Boys and Girls in the Southwest

20. https://commons.library.stonybrook.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1006&context=cnlglobalconference - Microsoft Word - Buroshiva Dasgupta Proceedings.docx

21. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fake_news_in_India - Fake news in India

22. https://www.mdpi.com/2673-5172/2/1/7 - COVID-19-Related Social Media Fake News in India

23. https://www.change.org/p/government-of-india-legalize-marijuana-in-india - Sign the Petition

24. https://www.cnn.com/2013/08/08/health/gupta-changed-mind-marijuana/index.html - Why I changed my mind on weed | CNN

25. https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2017/03/29/the-future-of-free-speech-trolls-anonymity-and-fake-news-online/ - The Future of Free Speech, Trolls, Anonymity and Fake News Online

26. https://thefern.org/2023/12/what-good-is-beef/ - What good is beef? | Food and Environment Reporting Network

27. https://trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/Recommendations_on_Media_Ownership.pdf - PDF

28. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9885015/ - Overpoliced and Underrepresented: Perspectives on Cannabis Legalization From Members of Racialized Communities in Canada

29. https://www.drugsandalcohol.ie/26086/1/Cannabis_medical_use_evidence.pdf - PDF

30. https://southasia.ucla.edu/history-politics/colonial-epistemologies/indian-hemp-drugs-commission/ - Indian Hemp Drugs Commission | MANAS