Weed in Bareilly: The Underground Cannabis Scene
Bareilly, a city in Uttar Pradesh known for its cultural heritage, markets, and famous “jhumka” reference in Bollywood, also has a discreet cannabis (ganja) culture. While the city is not widely recognized for its drug scene, the presence of marijuana users is evident among students, daily wage workers, and spiritual seekers. Despite being illegal under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985, cannabis continues to circulate in underground circles.
Is Weed Legal in Bareilly?
Cannabis is illegal in Bareilly, as it is across India. The NDPS Act bans the cultivation, sale, possession, and consumption of marijuana, imposing strict penalties, including heavy fines and imprisonment. Uttar Pradesh authorities, including the police and anti-narcotics units, conduct frequent raids to curb drug-related activities.
However, an exception exists in the form of bhang, a cannabis-based preparation that is legally sold in government-licensed shops. Bhang is deeply rooted in Indian culture and is commonly consumed during religious festivals like Holi and Maha Shivratri. Unlike bhang, other forms of cannabis, such as ganja (dried marijuana flowers) and charas (hashish), remain illegal and are only available through underground sources.
Where Do People Get Weed in Bareilly?
Since marijuana is not legally sold, those who seek it in Bareilly rely on hidden sources. Some common ways cannabis is accessed include:
- Local Dealers in Secluded Areas – Certain locations, like isolated parts of the city, railway stations, and roadside dhabas, are known for discreet transactions.
- Supply from Neighboring States – Weed is often transported from Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Bihar, where illegal cultivation is more common.
- Slum and Rural Areas – Some people source cannabis from village areas where its use is more widespread.
- College and University Networks – Students often rely on word-of-mouth connections to find reliable sources.
- Online and Dark Web Sources – Some users explore digital platforms, though this carries a higher risk of legal consequences.
The most commonly found weed in Bareilly is patti (low-quality, leafy cannabis). High-quality ganja is less common, while charas (hashish) from Himachal Pradesh or Uttarakhand can be found at a high price.
Who Uses Weed in Bareilly?
Cannabis consumption in Bareilly is mostly seen among:
- College Students and Young Adults – Some use it as a way to deal with stress or social pressure.
- Daily Wage Workers and Laborers – Many use cannabis as a cheap way to relax after long hours of work.
- Sadhus and Spiritual Seekers – Some religious practitioners use cannabis for meditation and rituals.
- Artists and Musicians – A small number of creative individuals consume cannabis for inspiration.
The Future of Weed in Bareilly
Uttar Pradesh has a strict stance on drug enforcement, and cannabis remains illegal with no immediate signs of legalization. However, discussions on medical cannabis and industrial hemp are increasing in India. For now, marijuana consumption in Bareilly remains an underground activity, with authorities keeping a close watch on its distribution. Users continue to consume it discreetly, aware of the risks involved.