Himachal Pradesh News
Himachal Pradesh Makes Drug Test Mandatory for Government Jobs, Professional College Admissions
In a major move against the growing drug crisis in the state, the government of Himachal Pradesh has decided to make drug testing compulsory for candidates applying for government jobs. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu during a press conference held after a meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD).
In a major move against the growing drug crisis in the state, the government of Himachal Pradesh has decided to make drug testing compulsory for candidates applying for government jobs. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu during a press conference held after a meeting of the Narco-Coordination Centre (NCORD).
The decision comes as the state intensifies its fight against the “chitta” menace, a term commonly used for synthetic drugs that have increasingly affected the youth across Himachal Pradesh.
According to the Chief Minister, every candidate seeking recruitment in government departments will now have to undergo a mandatory drug test before appointment. The government is also planning to implement the same rule for students seeking admission to professional colleges.
Sukhu said the administration is determined to eliminate drug abuse from the state and ensure a safer future for young people. He added that the second phase of the anti-chitta awareness campaign will begin from June 1 and continue till August 20 across government schools and colleges.
Strict Action Against Employees and Police Personnel
The Chief Minister revealed that the government has already taken action against several employees allegedly linked to drug-related activities. A total of 123 government employees and 31 police personnel have faced action so far.
Among them, the services of 10 police personnel and 10 government employees have been terminated after their involvement in drug-related cases came to light. Departments where employees were found involved include the HPSEBL, Education Department, Jal Shakti Vibhag, HRTC and Forest Department.
The government believes strict accountability within departments is necessary to send a strong message against drug abuse and trafficking.
12,000 Suspects Identified in Drug Trafficking Network
The Himachal Pradesh government also disclosed that nearly 12,000 individuals have been identified for suspected involvement in drug trafficking activities. Surveillance has been intensified in 234 highly sensitive panchayats across the state with the support of special police units and the CID.
Several districts, including Shimla, Solan, Sirmaur, Kullu, Mandi, Kangra and Una, have been marked as high-risk zones under the anti-drug operation.
Officials said increased monitoring, intelligence gathering and community awareness campaigns are being carried out to break the network of illegal drug suppliers.
Government Targets Illegal Medicine Sales and Drug Networks
The state government has also warned pharmaceutical companies and medical shops against illegal sale or diversion of medicines. Sukhu said licences of shops found selling medicines unlawfully would be cancelled immediately.
In another significant step, the annual performance reports of Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police will now include numerical grading based on their efforts in controlling drug abuse and implementing anti-drug campaigns.
Over 6,800 NDPS Cases Registered Since 2023
Sharing official figures, the Chief Minister stated that since 2023, authorities have registered 6,811 cases under the NDPS Act, marking a rise of more than 33 percent compared to the previous government’s tenure.
During this period, over 10,357 accused have been arrested, while authorities seized around 45,867 kilograms of narcotic substances, including chitta.
The Special Task Force (STF) has reportedly investigated more than 700 cases and identified 300 cases for financial investigation and property seizure. So far, 76 illegal properties linked to drug activities have been identified, with demolition and eviction action initiated in 17 cases.
Himachal Government Sends Strong Message Against Drug Abuse
The latest announcement by the Himachal Pradesh government reflects a tougher stance against drug abuse and trafficking in the hill state. By linking government jobs and educational admissions with mandatory drug testing, the administration aims to discourage substance abuse among the youth and strengthen its long-term anti-drug mission.
With rising concerns over the spread of chitta in northern India, the move is expected to spark debate as well as support from families and communities demanding stricter action against narcotics.
