Weed in Chandigarh: The Reality of Cannabis in the City
Chandigarh, the well-planned capital of both Punjab and Haryana, is known for its clean streets, modern infrastructure, and vibrant youth culture. However, beneath its polished image, there exists a discreet cannabis scene. Weed, or ganja, remains illegal in Chandigarh under Indian law, but that hasn’t stopped certain groups from consuming it for recreational, medicinal, or spiritual purposes.
Despite strict drug laws, cannabis continues to have a presence in the city, with users sourcing it through underground networks, personal contacts, and occasional visits to rural areas where cannabis plants grow naturally.
Is Weed Legal in Chandigarh?
Like the rest of India, weed is illegal in Chandigarh under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985. Possession, sale, or consumption of cannabis can result in fines and imprisonment. The Union Territory’s law enforcement agencies actively monitor and crack down on drug-related activities, making it risky for users and dealers alike.
However, one exception exists: bhang, a cannabis-infused drink, is legally available in some government-licensed shops. Traditionally consumed during festivals like Holi and Mahashivratri, bhang is socially and culturally accepted, unlike ganja (dried cannabis flowers) and charas (hashish), which remain prohibited.
Where Do People Get Weed in Chandigarh?
Although openly buying and selling weed is illegal, certain sources exist:
- Street Dealers in Secluded Areas – Some small-time sellers operate in hidden spots, though police crackdowns make this risky.
- Private Networks and Word-of-Mouth – Many users rely on trusted contacts to access cannabis discreetly.
- Villages Near Chandigarh – Some rural areas in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh have access to homegrown cannabis.
- University and College Circles – A section of the student community experiments with cannabis, sourcing it through personal connections.
- Tourist and Trekking Routes – Travelers returning from Himachal Pradesh often bring small quantities of high-quality charas.
The most commonly available weed in Chandigarh is low to mid-quality patti (leafy weed) sourced from states like Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Occasionally, high-quality charas from Himachal Pradesh makes its way into the city but at a premium price.
Who Uses Weed in Chandigarh?
Cannabis consumption in Chandigarh isn’t as widespread as in cities like Delhi or Mumbai, but it exists among:
- College Students and Young Adults – Some students experiment with cannabis for relaxation and recreation.
- Artists and Creative Professionals – Certain musicians, writers, and painters use cannabis for inspiration.
- Spiritual Practitioners and Sadhus – Some religious figures incorporate cannabis into their rituals.
- Laborers and Daily Wage Workers – Some use cannabis as an affordable way to relieve stress.
The Future of Weed in Chandigarh
While the global conversation on cannabis legalization is growing, India remains conservative in its approach. Punjab and Haryana have strict anti-drug laws due to concerns over substance abuse, making cannabis legalization unlikely in the near future. However, discussions about medical cannabis and industrial hemp are gaining momentum. If regulations change, Chandigarh could see controlled access to cannabis products in a legal manner.
For now, weed in Chandigarh remains part of the underground culture—used in secrecy but known to those who seek it.