‘Zombie drug’ scare grows in India after Bengaluru and Chandigarh videos go viral

A growing concern is being seen across India after a new viral video from Bengaluru triggered fears about the so-called zombie drug. The clip, reportedly from Bagalur near Nitte College, shows a man standing completely still for several minutes, appearing unresponsive and unaware of his surroundings. The visuals have unsettled many people, with users on social media warning about the possible spread of a dangerous substance linked to trance-like behaviour. However, the exact cause behind the man’s condition has not been officially confirmed.

This is not the first such case. Last month, a similar incident was reported in Chandigarh, where a man believed to be a delivery worker was seen standing still in a residential area for nearly two hours. Eyewitnesses said he appeared unresponsive, staring blankly with a cigarette in his mouth.

The situation raised concern among locals, who eventually called the police. He was later taken for medical evaluation, but the reason behind his condition was never confirmed. These back-to-back incidents have led to speculation that a harmful substance could be spreading in Indian cities. Some users on X have even suggested that such drugs may have entered through cross-border routes, although there is no official confirmation to support these claims.

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What is xylazine?

Much of the concern online has been linked to xylazine, a drug that has caused serious health problems in countries like the United States. Often called a zombie drug, it can leave users in a motionless and almost lifeless state for long periods. Xylazine is originally approved for veterinary use by the Food and Drug Administration and is not meant for human consumption. It has been found mixed with illegal substances such as heroin and fentanyl to increase their effects.

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Why are experts cautious?

One major risk is that xylazine does not respond to naloxone, which is commonly used to treat opioid overdoses. Health experts warn that repeated use can lead to extreme drowsiness, slow breathing, and severe skin wounds. In serious cases, untreated wounds can lead to dead tissue and may even require amputation. Reports from cities like Philadelphia have shown how widespread the issue has become, with the drug found in a large number of street samples. At present, there is no confirmed evidence linking the Bengaluru or Chandigarh incidents directly to xylazine. Still, the viral videos have raised important questions about drug safety, awareness, and public health in India.