Mega anti-drug campaign to be launched in state soon, says CM

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that his government will launch a large-scale anti-drug campaign in near future while felicitating the winners of the 12th HP Police Half Marathon organised to raise awareness against drug abuse here today. The Chief Minister also said that the government was “considering amending police manual to fix greater accountability within the force”.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister expressed serious concern over the involvement of government employees in drug-related activities. “Strict action has already been taken against 80 government employees facing legal proceedings so far. Even police personnel have been found involved in drug trafficking activities. The government is considering amending the Police Manual to ensure greater accountability within the force,” he said.

Among other measures being undertaken to curb drug abuse in the state, mapping is being conducted at the panchayat and ward level to facilitate targeted intervention. “The government is creating a Special Task Force to clamp down on drug trafficking and recruitment process is already underway. Additionally, 500 new posts will be filled in the police department to strengthen enforcement efforts,” the CM said, adding, “Youth are the future of our nation and protecting them from the drug menace was a collective responsibility.”

He further said the state was working on a two-pronged strategy – strict enforcement and a sensitive approach towards victims – to curb the menace. He said his government had implemented the PIT-NDPS Act and 40 detention orders had been approved, 36 of which were issued this year. “The government has demolished properties belonging to seven drug peddlers and is actively pursuing action against others,” he added.

Sukhu further said the state had passed the HP Anti-Drugs Act, which distinguishes between offenders and victims. The law adopts a rehabilitative approach towards drug users, aiming to bring them back into the mainstream of society. He urged parents to maintain open communication with their children and educate them about the harmful effects of drugs. He called upon all sections of society to actively participate in the anti-drug campaign to safeguard the future of the youth.

As part of the awareness drive, the Chief Minister also released a special song of ‘Harmony of the Pines’ dedicated to the anti-drug campaign.

Himachal Tribune