In a significant move to combat the rising drug menace in Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday announced that anti-chitta (heroin) testing would now be compulsory for recruitment in all government departments. Additionally, students seeking admission to professional institutions such as medical, engineering, nursing, and pharmacy colleges will also have to undergo mandatory drug testing.
Multi-Pronged Strategy Against Drug Abuse
Chairing a meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD), Sukhu stated that the state government has decided to adopt a multi-pronged strategy to curb drug abuse and trafficking. As part of this initiative, numerical grading will now be incorporated into the annual confidential reports (ACRs) of Deputy Commissioners (DC) and Superintendents of Police (SP). This grading will be based on their performance in checking the drug menace and implementing anti-drug awareness campaigns.
Speeding Up Investigations and Trials
The Chief Minister directed officials to prepare forensic reports in drug-related cases within five days to expedite investigations and trials. He also instructed district police chiefs to maintain constant surveillance on trafficking networks and closely monitor the situation regularly. Strict action against drug smugglers was ordered, and Sukhu emphasized that illegally encroached properties belonging to chitta traffickers should be demolished. District administrations have been asked to map repeat offenders and monitor their activities.
Warning to Pharmaceutical Companies
Sukhu warned pharmaceutical companies against any diversion or illegal distribution of medicines. Licenses of shops involved in the unlawful sale of medicines will be cancelled immediately, he said.
Action Against Government Employees
Highlighting the action already taken, Sukhu revealed that proceedings were initiated against 123 government employees and police personnel found involved in drug-related activities. Of these, 10 government employees and 21 cops were dismissed from services. Those facing action included employees from HRTC, food and civil supplies, rural development, electricity board, Jal Shakti, and veterinary departments.
Second Phase of Anti-Chitta Campaign
The Chief Minister also announced that the second phase of the massive anti-chitta awareness campaign will run from June 1 to August 20 in government schools and colleges across the state. Administrative and police officers will visit educational institutions to educate students about the harmful effects of drug abuse.
Statistics and Seizures
Sukhu informed that around 12,000 individuals have been identified in connection with drug activities. Special police and CID surveillance have been deployed in 234 highly sensitive panchayats. Since 2023, a total of 6,811 NDPS cases have been registered in Himachal Pradesh, leading to the arrest of 10,357 accused and seizure of 45,867 kg of narcotics. Illegal assets worth nearly Rs 51 crore linked to drug traffickers have also been seized during the past three-and-a-half years.
