Mizoram Government Approves Transfer of Jordan Centre to Presbyterian Church
In a significant development, Mizoram's Minister for Social Welfare, Women & Child Development, Lalrinpuii, announced on Wednesday that the state government has decided to hand over the Jordan Centre to the Presbyterian Church's Mizoram Synod. This facility, located in Sethawn within the Kolasib district bordering Assam, is a government-owned center dedicated to rehabilitating drug addicts.
Assembly Announcement and Church Preparedness
Responding to queries from Mizo National Front (MNF) legislators Ramthanmawia and K Laldawngliana during a state assembly session, Minister Lalrinpuii provided detailed insights into the impending transfer. She revealed that the Presbyterian Church has already allocated a substantial sum of Rs 2 crore to facilitate the takeover, indicating strong financial commitment and readiness.
Lalrinpuii further elaborated that the church has been actively making preparations for this transition. The Synod Executive Committee (SEC), which serves as the second-highest decision-making authority within the Presbyterian Church, is expected to convene a meeting shortly. The minister expressed optimism that this committee would reach a favorable decision, paving the way for a smooth handover process.
Legal Procedures and Current Status of the Centre
Regarding the procedural aspects, Lalrinpuii clarified that the formal handover will occur as soon as the Presbyterian Church completes its preparatory steps. An official agreement will be signed between the Mizoram government and the church, with legal approvals currently awaited from the law and judicial department to ensure all regulatory requirements are met.
The Jordan Centre has faced operational challenges in recent times, with reports indicating it has been largely abandoned by the state government and is barely functional. This transfer aims to revitalize the facility under church management, potentially enhancing its effectiveness in addressing drug addiction issues in the region.
Implications for Drug Rehabilitation in Mizoram
This decision marks a pivotal shift in the management of drug rehabilitation services in Mizoram, leveraging the Presbyterian Church's resources and community influence. By entrusting the Jordan Centre to the church, the government seeks to improve care for drug addicts, aligning with broader public health and social welfare goals. The move underscores a collaborative approach between state authorities and religious institutions to tackle substance abuse, a critical issue in the northeastern state.
