Dope Test Mandatory in Himachal Police Recruitment; New Employees to Submit Anti-Drug Declaration

Shimla, July 29:
The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, took several significant decisions today in light of the growing drug menace in the state. During the meeting, the Police, Social Justice & Empowerment, and Health Departments gave detailed presentations on steps taken for drug control.

The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards drugs, stating that preventing the youth from falling into addiction is a top priority. He emphasized the need for coordinated action to dismantle drug trafficking networks.

A key decision taken by the Cabinet was to make dope testing for synthetic drugs such as chitta mandatory in all future police recruitment. Additionally, all newly appointed government employees will be required to submit an affidavit declaring that they do not use synthetic drugs. Strict disciplinary action will be taken against any government employee found involved in drug-related offences.

The Cabinet was also informed that the drug situation in Himachal is currently under control. Only 9% of cases registered under the NDPS Act in the state are related to synthetic drugs, compared to 20% in Punjab. Since the current government took office, 45 cases have been registered and property worth ₹42.22 crore linked to drug traffickers has been seized — nearly double the figures from previous years. Furthermore, 44 individuals have been detained under the PIT-NDPS Act.

The Health Department has been directed to strengthen training, awareness, treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation efforts. Presently, rehab centers are functioning in Kullu, Hamirpur, Nurpur, and Una. Plans are now underway to establish similar centers at all district headquarters. A ₹14.95 crore project is being launched under the State Action Plan of the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment for this purpose.

The Chief Minister also urged women’s groups, youth clubs, panchayats, civil society organizations, and the Education Department to actively participate in awareness campaigns against substance abuse. He issued strict instructions to enhance vigilance in border areas and to curb the inflow of drugs from neighboring states. CM Sukhu called for unified and coordinated efforts across all departments in the state’s fight against drugs.