In a powerful display of public resolve against the narcotics menace, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday spearheaded a massive 'Anti-Chitta Awareness Walkathon' in Hamirpur. The event saw the participation of thousands, including a large contingent of school and college students, marking a significant step in the state's war on drugs.
A Solemn Pledge and a People's Movement
The walkathon commenced from the Government Senior Secondary School (Boys) in Hamirpur and concluded at the Police Lines Dosarka Ground. Before setting off, Chief Minister Sukhu administered a solemn oath to the gathered crowd, who pledged collectively to eradicate chitta and other narcotics from the state. Framing the fight as a decisive battle, Sukhu declared that strict and decisive action was underway to uproot the 'chitta termite' from its very foundations using the unyielding force of the law.
He emphasized that the campaign transcended mere law enforcement, calling it a people's mass movement crucial for protecting the social fabric and core identity of Himachal Pradesh. The CM interacted with children during the walk, explaining the severe threat chitta poses to health and society, and encouraged students to become ambassadors of awareness.
Holistic Strategy: Crackdown, Rehabilitation, and Public Incentives
Outlining a comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy, CM Sukhu detailed the state's offensive. He stated that drug traffickers, suppliers, and their protectors were being systematically targeted. The administration is leveraging advanced technology, a strengthened intelligence framework, and stringent legal provisions to dismantle narcotics cartels.
Simultaneously, a strong focus was placed on victim support. The government is establishing new de-addiction centres across Himachal and forming a dedicated 'Drug De-addiction, Prevention and Rehabilitation Board' to coordinate treatment, prevention, and community outreach. "Youths trapped in drug addiction are being rehabilitated and brought back into the mainstream of society," Sukhu affirmed.
To bolster public involvement, the CM announced a confidential informant reward scheme. Individuals providing credible information on chitta suppliers can receive rewards ranging from Rs 10,000 to Rs 10 lakh, with their identities protected by the government.
Grassroots Mobilization and High-Level Participation
The administration has already conducted meetings of Drug De-addiction Committees in 234 panchayats and urban local bodies most affected by drugs. These meetings aim to strengthen public participation and facilitate detailed discussions at the grassroots level.
The walkathon witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, demonstrating a united front. Among those present were Technical Education Minister Rajesh Dharmani, the CM's Political Advisor Sunil Sharma Bittu, MLAs Suresh Kumar and Captain Ranjit Singh, Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta, and Director General of Police Ashok Tiwari. Officials from the newly proposed De-addiction Board and Congress leaders were also in attendance, as students and citizens carried placards and raised slogans against the drug scourge.
