Alarmed by the pervasive sale of drugs, cigarettes, and e-cigarettes near educational institutions, the Aurangabad bench of the Bombay High Court has initiated a suo motu Public Interest Litigation (PIL). The court's action, driven by grave concerns for the safety and well-being of school and college students, follows disturbing media reports highlighting vendors targeting young, impressionable minds with addictive substances.

Justices Ravindra Ghuge and Y.G. Khobragade, presiding over the matter on June 20, 2025, voiced their apprehension, stating that the news articles revealed a "troubling trend." The reports detailed the blatant sale of banned items outside schools and colleges, enticing students toward addiction and potential physical harm. The court specifically cited investigative journalism published in the June 14 and June 16, 2025, editions of a Marathi daily, Dainik Sakal, as the basis for their concern.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the High Court directed the police in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad) to take immediate and sincere action. The court emphasized that law enforcement must act "in the true spirit of their duty" to protect the youth from being lured into addiction. The bench also expressed its appreciation for the press reporters of Dainik Sakal, who brought the critical issue to light.

To ensure a comprehensive and sustained institutional response, the court appointed Senior Advocate P.R. Katneshwarkar as amicus curiae, instructing him to file a formal PIL. This will enable the court to issue detailed and binding directives to the concerned authorities, facilitating a more effective and coordinated approach to tackling the problem. The court has directed the Registrar (Judicial) to register the Suo Moto Public Interest Litigation and ensure that copies of the news reports are placed on record.

The High Court's intervention underscores the severity of the issue and the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard students from the dangers of substance abuse. The court's proactive stance reflects a commitment to protecting the well-being of young citizens and ensuring a safe and healthy environment for their education and development.