Dr. Shriram Nene calls India’s approach to Cannabis 'Hypocritical,' recalls medical use in US
Mumbai: Renowned cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Shriram Nene, who is also the husband of actor Madhuri Dixit, has criticised India’s stance on cannabis, calling it “hypocritical” in comparison to its regulated medical use in other countries, including the United States.
Speaking on his health and wellness YouTube channel during a conversation with YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia, Dr. Nene shared his experience of prescribing cannabis to cancer patients in the US, where medical marijuana is legal under controlled conditions.
“In India, there’s a bit of hypocrisy, it’s not that big of a deal,” Dr. Nene remarked, pointing out that while substances like ‘bhaang’ have been culturally accepted and traditionally used by ascetics and others, the broader discourse around cannabis continues to be burdened by stigma and legal constraints.
He elaborated that during his time as a practicing surgeon in the US, cannabis was commonly recommended for patients undergoing chemotherapy, particularly to alleviate nausea and improve appetite. It was also prescribed for those suffering from chronic fatigue and similar conditions.
Dr. Nene acknowledged the concerns surrounding the misuse of cannabis but underlined the need to distinguish between unregulated recreational use and prescribed medical application. “Cannabis has legitimate therapeutic benefits when used in the right medical context,” he said, emphasising the importance of scientific evaluation over societal fear.
The comments come amid growing global conversations about the decriminalisation and medical use of cannabis. While several countries have moved to relax laws and regulate cannabis for health-related purposes, India continues to classify it under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, barring limited exceptions like bhaang.
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Davangere South bypoll: Congress ahead by narrow lead after 14th round
Davangere: The Congress candidate is leading in the Davangere South Assembly by-election after the completion of the 14th round of counting.
According to the latest figures, the Congress has secured 46,460 votes, while the BJP stands at 39,037 votes, trailing by 7,423 votes.
The SDPI candidate has polled 15,303 votes so far.
Counting is still underway, and final results are awaited.
