Reaffirming the government’s zero-tolerance policy against drug abuse, the Chief Minister on Wednesday said a mass movement has been launched across the state to make the youth aware of the harmful effects of Chitta and other narcotics. He said the anti-Chitta awareness walkathons being organised by the Police Department in different parts of the state have emerged as key pillars of this sustained campaign, helping to mobilise public participation and spread awareness at the grassroots level.
The Chief Minister said drug addiction poses a serious threat to the future of the youth and the overall social fabric, and stressed that awareness, enforcement and community participation must go hand in hand to eliminate the menace. He underlined that the government is committed to taking the strictest possible action against anyone involved in drug trafficking, irrespective of their position or department.
Highlighting the government’s firm action, the Chief Minister disclosed that 12 police personnel found involved in Chitta-related activities have already been dismissed from service. He added that similar strict action would be taken against employees of any other department if they are found to be part of the drug racket. “No one will be spared. Accountability within the system is essential to win this fight,” he asserted.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister administered an oath against drug abuse, calling upon people, especially the youth, to pledge their commitment towards a drug-free society. He urged citizens to actively support the administration by reporting drug-related activities and by guiding young people away from addiction through awareness and counselling.
As part of the programme, the Police Department organised live demonstrations of various rescue and response techniques, showcasing preparedness, coordination and professional skills required during emergency situations. These demonstrations were aimed at building public confidence and highlighting the proactive role of the police in safeguarding society.
Director General of Police Ashok Tiwari welcomed the Chief Minister and presented a detailed briefing on the department’s ongoing initiatives, enforcement measures and awareness campaigns to combat drug abuse and trafficking across the state.
Several senior leaders and public representatives were present on the occasion, including Agriculture Minister Chaudhary Chander Kumar, MLAs Kishori Lal and Malender Rajan, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Agriculture and Rural Development Bank Sanjay Singh Chauhan, Chairman of Kangra Cooperative Primary Agriculture and Rural Development Bank Ram Chander Pathania, Vice Chairman of HRTC Ajay Verma, Chairman of the Wool Federation Manoj Thakur, Chairman of APMC Kangra Nishu Mongra, along with other dignitaries.
The event underscored the government’s multi-pronged approach to tackling drug abuse through strict enforcement, institutional accountability and mass public awareness, positioning the anti-Chitta campaign as a long-term social movement rather than a one-time initiative.
