Rising Deaths Spark Call for Paraquat Crackdown

Galla Madhavi has urged the state government to impose an immediate ban on the sale of the highly toxic herbicide paraquat, warning that its easy availability is contributing to rising fatalities . She raised the issue during the Zero Hour of the Assembly’s Budget Session on Thursday, calling for urgent policy intervention.

Chemical Emerging as a ‘Silent Killer’

Originally intended for agricultural use, paraquat is now turning into a serious public health concern. The MLA noted that the substance is increasingly being used in impulsive suicide attempts . Even a small quantity around five millilitres can cause irreversible damage to vital organs such as the lungs and kidneys, leading to irreversible damage and, in many cases, death.

No Antidote, Limited Medical Response

Highlighting the gravity of the issue, she said the absence of a specific antidote makes treatment extremely difficult. Even when victims are rushed to hospitals, doctors often have limited options to save them. The herbicide’s low cost and widespread access, she argued, have intensified the crisis.

She pointed out that states like Kerala and Punjab have already imposed restrictions after recognising the threat. Urging Andhra Pradesh to follow suit, she called for stricter regulation , stronger awareness campaigns, and comprehensive preventive measures.

Stressing that protecting human life must be the government’s top priority, she demanded swift and decisive action.