India Controls Chemical Used in Mephedrone Production Amid Rising Drug Lab Raids

The Indian government has added the chemical 2-Bromo-4-Methylpropiophenone to the list of controlled substances under the NDPS Act to curb the production of mephedrone, a synthetic stimulant known as 'meow meow.' Drug cartels have been using this chemical in clandestine labs across states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Satara district, often employing chemistry students to synthesize the drug. Recent raids uncovered mobile and hidden labs, highlighting challenges for law enforcement in monitoring and controlling this illicit trade.