CM Sukhu reaffirmed the state government’s zero-tolerance stance on drug abuse during a Cabinet meeting held today. Detailed presentations were made by the Police, Social Justice and Empowerment, and Health Departments on measures being implemented to counter the drug menace in Himachal Pradesh.
To tighten control, the Cabinet approved mandatory ‘Chitta’ dope testing for all candidates during police recruitment and made it compulsory for new government employees to submit a non-consumption declaration. The CM warned that any government employee found involved in drug activities would face strict action.
Highlighting recent achievements, the CM noted that properties worth ₹42.22 crore belonging to drug offenders have been seized under the current government, marking a significant increase from previous years. Forty-four detention orders under the PIT-NDPS Act have also been executed.
While drug-related cases in Himachal (9%) remain significantly lower than in Punjab (20%), the CM stressed that the state must remain vigilant. He instructed the Health Department to intensify rehabilitation, counseling, and awareness programs, and announced a ₹14.95 crore project to establish rehab centres in all district headquarters.
The CM also called for greater involvement of Mahila Mandals, Yuvak Mandals, PRIs, schools, and civil society in awareness efforts and urged for inter-departmental coordination to combat the threat. Regular monitoring of interstate borders was emphasized to curb drug trafficking routes.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
