Himachal Pradesh completes drug user survey for intervention

The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, announced in the assembly that the government has completed a survey of drug users in local communities. This was in response to questions from members of the opposition BJP regarding efforts to combat drug abuse in the state. Sukhu said the government has mapped drug consumers, focusing on heroin users known as "chitta." He mentioned that plans are in place to extend this mapping to schools and colleges. The CM noted a 30% reduction in heroin consumption due to the government's strict actions against drug trafficking. He criticized the previous BJP government for not effectively implementing the PIT NDPS act, which aims to tackle drug abuse. Sukhu highlighted that three drug traffickers were detained following the law's enforcement, and ensured that repeat offenders will face tougher penalties. The Chief Minister also indicated that 60 government employees had been linked to drug trafficking. Strict actions will follow against these individuals based on the new legislation. He announced plans for a special task force to engage the community in the fight against drug abuse and mentioned the establishment of a rehabilitation center in Solan district. In response, former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur expressed concern about the serious drug problem in Himachal, comparing it to the situation in Punjab. He questioned the government's claims of success in reducing drug cases, suggesting that actual numbers may be higher due to stigma associated with reporting overdoses.