CM Sukhu today led an Anti-Chitta Awareness Walkathon in Hamirpur, giving fresh momentum to a statewide people’s movement against the deadly synthetic drug that is severely affecting the youth of Himachal Pradesh.
The walkathon began from Government Senior Secondary School (Boys), Hamirpur, and concluded at the Police Lines Dosadka Ground. It witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, public representatives, government officials and citizens from all walks of life. Prior to the walk, the Chief Minister administered a pledge, with participants collectively resolving to eradicate chitta and other narcotic substances from the state.
Addressing the gathering at the concluding venue, the Chief Minister said that Himachal Pradesh was engaged in a decisive and uncompromising battle against chitta. He asserted that the government was taking strict action to uproot the “chitta termite” from its very roots through strong legal measures, advanced technology and a strengthened intelligence network. Drug traffickers, suppliers and those shielding such networks, he said, are firmly under the police radar.
Reaffirming the government’s resolve, the Chief Minister stated that the fight against chitta is not just a law-and-order exercise but a mass movement aimed at protecting the social fabric and future of the state. He highlighted major achievements of the campaign, including simultaneous raids at 121 locations across Himachal Pradesh on 22 November, followed by intensive checking drives in educational institutions and surrounding areas. These actions led to multiple NDPS cases, challans and the arrest of several notorious traffickers.
He further informed that 63 traffickers have been arrested so far, 1,214 traffickers and suspects identified, and 950 illegal properties earmarked for action. Assets worth over ₹50 crore have been seized under the NDPS Act, marking a significant rise compared to previous years.
The Chief Minister outlined a comprehensive strategy that also focuses on rehabilitation and support for drug victims. New de-addiction centres are being set up across the state, along with the formation of a dedicated Drug De-addiction, Prevention and Rehabilitation Board to strengthen treatment, prevention and awareness efforts.
Calling upon the public to actively support the campaign, he said, “Reform yourself or face the consequences. Serving the nation is the duty of every citizen.” He assured that youth trapped in addiction are being rehabilitated and reintegrated into society. To encourage public cooperation, he announced rewards ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹10 lakh for informers providing credible information on chitta suppliers, with complete confidentiality and protection guaranteed.
The Chief Minister also shared that Drug De-addiction Committee meetings were held in December in 234 of the most affected panchayats and urban local bodies to strengthen grassroots-level participation.
During the walkathon, he interacted with children, educating them about the harmful effects of chitta and urging them to spread awareness. Students and citizens carried placards and raised slogans against drug abuse, while the Police Department presented cultural programmes to sensitize the public.
The Chief Minister lauded the Police Department and all participants for successfully organizing the walkathon and contributing to the mission of a drug-free Himachal Pradesh.
