Major Anti-Drug Offensive on the Anvil
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In a significant policy shift aimed at restoring public trust and curbing the spiraling drug menace, the Himachal Pradesh Government is considering amending the Police Manual to ensure stricter accountability within the force. This move comes amid serious revelations about the involvement of police personnel in drug trafficking, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced on Sunday.
Addressing a large gathering during the 12th Himachal Police Half Marathon in Shimla — themed “Together We Defeat Drugs” — Chief Minister Sukhu expressed grave concern over government employees, including law enforcers, being found complicit in drug-related crimes. "Strict action has already been taken against 80 such employees, and legal proceedings are underway," he said, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Sukhu said that the state government is gearing up for a massive anti-drug campaign. “Mapping at the panchayat ward level is being conducted to ensure targeted interventions. A Special Task Force is being formed to dismantle the drug trafficking network, and 500 new posts will soon be added to the police force to boost enforcement efforts," he announced.
Further tightening the legal framework, Sukhu revealed that the present Congress-led Government has actively enforced the PIT-NDPS Act — a law that remained dormant during the previous BJP regime. "So far, 40 preventive detention orders have been approved under this Act, with 36 issued in the current year alone," he added. The state has also demolished properties of at least seven notorious drug peddlers, and more such actions are in the pipeline.
Additionally, the newly-enacted Himachal Pradesh Anti-Drugs Act distinguishes between drug users and traffickers, enabling a dual approach of penal action against criminals and rehabilitation for addicts. "Our aim is not just punishment but reintegration of drug users into mainstream society. This is both a moral and administrative responsibility," the Chief Minister said.
Urging parents to maintain transparent communication with their children, Sukhu appealed to civil society, educational institutions, and religious leaders to join hands in the war against drugs. “Youth are the future of the nation, and protecting them from this menace is a collective duty,” he asserted.
Earlier in the day, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla flagged off the marathon at Shimla’s historic Ridge Maidan. Braving inclement weather, people from all age groups — including children, the elderly, and differently-abled participants — ran in solidarity with the anti-drug cause. The marathon was held in four categories: Half Marathon, Mini Marathon, Dream Run, and a special run for differently-abled participants. The winner of the Half Marathon received a cash prize of Rs 51,000.
Praising the enthusiasm of participants, the Governor said, “We may take time, but we are determined to make Himachal a drug-free state.” He administered an oath to the crowd to stay away from intoxicants and underscored that drug eradication must reach every household to preserve the sanctity of Devbhoomi Himachal.
The event also featured an anti-drug exhibition by the state police and the release of a special song — Harmony of the Pines — dedicated to the campaign.
The presence of top officials, including DGP Ashok Tiwari, Additional Chief Secretary KK Pant, Mayor Surender Chauhan, and legislators like Harish Janartha, underscored the government’s united stand against the escalating drug crisis.