Himachal vows to crack down on drug trade: Chitta in crosshairs

Dharamsala, December 21, 2023: Himachal Pradesh is gearing up for a decisive battle against the rampant drug trade, with the state government pledging to eradicate "chitta" (heroin). Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri made the strong commitment in the Legislative Assembly while responding to a resolution raised by MLAs Sukhram Chaudhary and Kuldeep Rathore, highlighting the alarming rise in drug abuse.

Agnihotri announced a two-pronged approach. First, the Anti Narcotics Task Force will be reinforced with 500 additional personnel, bolstering its operational capacity. Second, a detailed investigation report on the drug trade will be unveiled during the upcoming budget session, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Recognizing the need for comprehensive action, Agnihotri emphasized the importance of scrutinizing all potential channels. He declared that all de-addiction centers across the state will undergo thorough investigations, aimed at weeding out any complicit elements.

Una MLA Satpal Singh Satti emphasized the need for strategic personnel deployment, particularly in border areas vulnerable to smuggling. Theog MLA Kuldeep Singh Rathore, drawing parallels to a recent student overdose in NIT Hamirpur, described the fight against drugs as an "undeclared war" demanding immediate and sustained action. Paonta MLA Sukhram Chaudhary echoed these concerns, urging heightened vigilance around educational institutions and calling for decisive action against police involvement in the drug trade.

The resolution on tackling drug addiction received unanimous support from all members of the House, signifying a united front against this critical issue.