Shillong, Sep 5: Cannabis plants targeted for destruction in remote areas are growing abundantly in the middle of Laitumkhrah market area, locals have flagged.
The plot looks abandoned, surrounded by a concrete wall with a locked cast iron gate. Inside, the compound resembles a garbage dump, but several lush ganja plants stand tall.
It is unclear whether they are growing wild or cultivated under guise of wild growth — only police verification can confirm if it is cannabis or a lookalike.
What has surprised locals is that authorities seem to turn a blind eye to the plot in a busy market locality.
The location has also allegedly become a safe haven for drug users, who are reportedly seen there particularly after nightfall.
Under law, cultivation carries a maximum penalty of 10 years jail and Rs 1 lakh fine, regardless of whether it is a single plant on a balcony or a whole field.
