Hyderabad, May 11, 2025 — In a shocking revelation from the city’s healthcare sector, Dr. Namrata Chigurupati, a 34-year-old CEO of a private hospital, has been arrested for allegedly purchasing cocaine worth ₹5 lakh. The arrest was made during a drug delivery operation in Rayadurgam, exposing a deeper, long-term drug use pattern linked to the doctor.
Police say Dr. Chigurupati had placed the order via WhatsApp, contacting Mumbai-based dealer Vansh Dhakkar. The delivery was carried out by Balakrishna, an associate of Dhakkar, who handed over the narcotics directly to Namrata. Acting on a tip-off, the police caught them in the act, seizing 53 grams of cocaine, ₹10,000 in cash, and two mobile phones.
What shocked investigators even more was her confession during interrogation. Dr. Chigurupati admitted to battling a cocaine addiction for some time and revealed she had spent nearly ₹70 lakh on drugs over the years. Officials have charged both her and Balakrishna under the NDPS Act, and both have been remanded to judicial custody.
This arrest has sent ripples through Hyderabad’s medical community, raising concerns about drug abuse among professionals. Authorities are now investigating the broader drug network and analyzing digital evidence for further leads. The case underscores how drug dependency can infiltrate even the most respected professions, and police have reiterated their commitment to crack down on narcotic abuse across all social classes.
On the day of the arrest, police intercepted a delivery that was set to take place near a restaurant in Rayadurgam. According to senior police officer Venkanna, "A medical practitioner, Namrata, had ordered drugs from Vansh in Mumbai, who was known to her. A person called Balakrishna then came to supply the drugs and handed them over to her at Rayadurgam."
Dr. Chigurupati reportedly ordered the drugs on May 4, 2025, and transferred the payment online. The police's swift action during the delivery operation highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the region.
As the investigation unfolds, the police are also seeking to identify other individuals involved in the drug trade, including a local peddler who may have connections to the broader network. This incident is part of a larger trend where narcotics-trafficking syndicates are utilizing advanced methods to distribute illegal substances, as evidenced by recent seizures made by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI).
From April 2024 to March 2025, the DRI's Mumbai unit seized more than 18 kilograms of foreign-origin cocaine, estimated to be around ₹180 crore, in 12 separate cases. This alarming increase in drug trafficking has raised serious concerns among law enforcement agencies and the public alike.
Dr. Chigurupati’s case is particularly striking given her position in the healthcare sector. As a CEO, she was expected to uphold the highest ethical standards, yet her actions reveal a troubling reality about addiction and substance abuse in high-pressure professions. The medical community is now grappling with the implications of this incident, as it raises questions about the mental health and well-being of healthcare professionals.
In the wake of Dr. Chigurupati’s arrest, discussions are emerging about the need for better support systems for healthcare workers, including mental health resources and addiction recovery programs. The stigma surrounding drug use often prevents individuals from seeking help, and this case may serve as a wake-up call for the industry.
As authorities continue their investigation, they are also emphasizing the importance of community awareness and education regarding drug abuse. The police have called for a collective effort to tackle the issue, urging citizens to report suspicious activities and support those in need of help.
The ramifications of this incident extend beyond the individuals involved; it reflects a broader societal issue that requires urgent attention. As Hyderabad confronts this challenge, the hope is that it will lead to meaningful discussions and actions aimed at preventing drug abuse in all sectors.
In summary, the arrest of Dr. Namrata Chigurupati has sparked a critical conversation about drug addiction within the medical community and the urgent need for comprehensive support systems. The investigation into her case is ongoing, with police committed to uncovering the full extent of the drug network and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
