Weed in Guwahati: A Look into the Cannabis Culture
Guwahati, the largest city in Assam and the gateway to Northeast India, is known for its rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and strong connection to nature. While cannabis (ganja) remains illegal in Guwahati under Indian law, it is still consumed discreetly by certain groups, including students, travelers, and spiritual seekers. The city’s proximity to states like Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, where cannabis plants grow naturally, also influences its availability.
Is Weed Legal in Guwahati?
Under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985, weed is illegal in Guwahati, as it is in the rest of India. Possession, sale, or consumption of cannabis can lead to imprisonment and hefty fines. Assam’s police and narcotics department actively monitor and crack down on drug-related activities, making it risky for both users and dealers.
However, one exception exists: bhang, a cannabis-infused drink made from the leaves of the cannabis plant. Unlike ganja (dried cannabis flowers) and charas (hashish), bhang is more culturally accepted and sometimes consumed during religious festivals like Holi and Shivratri. Though not as widely available in Guwahati as in North India, bhang is still found in some places.
Where Do People Get Weed in Guwahati?
Weed is not openly sold in Guwahati, but those familiar with the city can source it through:
- Local Dealers in Hidden Areas – Certain secluded spots in the city are known for discreet sales, though law enforcement is a major risk.
- Northeastern Connections – Cannabis from Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, and Manipur sometimes makes its way into Guwahati.
- Personal Networks – Many users rely on trusted friends or contacts to access cannabis.
- Rural and Tribal Communities – Some villages in the Northeast have a tradition of using cannabis for medicinal or recreational purposes.
- Tourist and Backpacker Circles – Some travelers bring high-quality charas from Himachal Pradesh or Uttarakhand.
The cannabis available in Guwahati is usually patti (low to mid-quality leafy weed) sourced from other states. Occasionally, high-quality charas (hashish) is found, but it is expensive and not easily accessible.
Who Uses Weed in Guwahati?
Cannabis consumption in Guwahati is not as visible as in metropolitan cities, but it exists among:
- College Students and Young Adults – Some students experiment with weed for relaxation and recreation.
- Artists and Musicians – Some creative professionals use cannabis for inspiration.
- Spiritual Practitioners and Sadhus – Some religious figures use cannabis as part of meditation and rituals.
- Daily Wage Workers and Laborers – A small section of workers consume cannabis as an affordable way to relieve stress.
The Future of Weed in Guwahati
While India is slowly exploring medical cannabis and industrial hemp, Assam remains strict in its approach to drugs. The government has taken strong measures to curb substance abuse, making cannabis legalization unlikely in the near future. However, discussions about controlled medical cannabis use and hemp farming are growing.
For now, weed in Guwahati remains a part of the underground scene—used discreetly by those who seek it, while the legal risks remain high.