Himachal Pradesh Takes Firm Stance Against Drug Abuse

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu has announced a zero tolerance policy against drug abuse, vowing strict action against government officials involved in smuggling. Two new bills will strengthen drug control, and a drug de-addiction center is planned near Solan district with a Rs 5 crore budget.

In a decisive move, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu declared a zero tolerance policy against drug abuse in the Vidhan Sabha on Thursday. The announcement follows concerns about the increasing problem of drug abuse in the state.

The policy will enforce strict consequences for government officials and employees caught facilitating drug smuggling. Discussions in the assembly, led by Congress MLA Kewal Singh Pathania, highlighted the need for a permanent solution.

New bills targeting drug control were introduced, and a significant budget has been allocated for a de-addiction center. Mapping of users is underway in 3,605 panchayats, with a reported 30% drop in drug trade attributed to these efforts.

(With inputs from agencies.)