CM Sukhu Vows Strict Action Against Employees Involved in Drug Smuggling, Zero Tolerance Policy on Drugs

Shimla, March 27: In a strong message against the rising menace of drug smuggling, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu declared that the state government will take stringent action against any government employees and officers found involved in drug trafficking. The CM made this statement during an assembly session on Thursday, emphasizing that strict actions will be initiated within a month to ensure accountability and eradicate the drug trade from the state.

Addressing the Assembly, Chief Minister Sukhu responded to a resolution raised by MLA Kewal Singh Pathania, focusing on the policy framework for the prevention of drug abuse in Himachal Pradesh. The CM reaffirmed that the state government is committed to adopting a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs. He also warned that anyone within the government system who leaks confidential information about drug trafficking operations would face severe consequences.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the devastating impact of drugs, especially chitta, has increasingly affected the state. He mentioned receiving disturbing reports from families whose sons have fallen prey to addiction, resulting in broken homes and criminal activities, including theft and violent behavior. Sukhu further stressed that drug addiction has escalated to a level where it is no longer just a personal crisis but a societal issue that requires immediate and decisive intervention.

“Drug addiction has become a significant concern. Many individuals affected by chitta often resort to quarreling with their families and engaging in criminal activities like stealing,” Sukhu stated. “We have received alarming reports from various families, and it’s clear that the situation is worsening,” he added.

The Chief Minister assured that significant action has already been taken in recent months to combat the drug trade, but some loopholes persist, including the leakage of sensitive information regarding drug smuggling operations. “We are aware that certain vulnerabilities exist where confidential information is being leaked. The government is determined to close these gaps and will soon take strict action against those responsible for such leaks,” Sukhu affirmed.

Further elaborating on the government’s commitment to tackling the drug crisis, the Chief Minister also announced that a strict new law related to drug abuse has been introduced during the ongoing budget session. This law proposes the harshest penalties, including the death sentence or life imprisonment, for individuals involved in drug trafficking and abuse.

To strengthen the efforts against drug trafficking, Sukhu mentioned that the state government is maintaining constant communication with neighboring Punjab to combat the cross-border drug trade. The CM emphasized the importance of collaboration between states to curb the widespread availability of illicit substances and dismantle the networks involved in drug smuggling.

In his address, the Chief Minister outlined a multi-pronged approach to combat drug abuse, including stringent enforcement of laws, awareness campaigns, rehabilitation efforts, and collaboration with neighboring states. “Our government will leave no stone unturned in curbing the drug menace,” Sukhu assured.

This firm stance by the Chief Minister has been welcomed by many, as the state struggles to deal with the increasing number of drug-related cases. The government’s zero-tolerance approach signifies a strong resolve to rid the state of this dangerous and pervasive issue.

As the issue of drug abuse continues to plague many communities in Himachal Pradesh, the government’s new policies and the promise of strict enforcement signal a determined effort to reclaim the state from the grips of this growing crisis.