NCB seeks report to study Himachal Pradesh’s ‘anti-chitta model’, enforce it in other states

Shimla: The regional office of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has sought a detailed report from Himachal Pradesh govt to study its "anti-chitta" model and explore its implementation in other states for more effective action against the drug menace.State govt has formulated a comprehensive strategy to tackle the growing menace of ‘chitta' (heroin). Under the initiative, Himachal Pradesh became the first state in the country to identify drug addicts and traffickers at the panchayat level and classify affected areas into red, yellow and green zones, based on the intensity of drug-related cases, mentioned a state govt statement. A statewide survey found 234 panchayats severely affected by drug abuse and trafficking, placing them in the red zone category. Following the findings, govt intensified police surveillance and enforcement in these areas, leading to significant action against traffickers. The govt has invoked the PIT-NDPS Act against 174 offenders, making Himachal one of the leading states in taking stringent legal action against drug mafias. Authorities have also confiscated illegal properties worth Rs 51 crore linked to drug traffickers. More than 700 cases have been investigated, while around 300 were found suitable for financial investigation and property seizure proceedings. Along with strict enforcement, the state has focused on rehabilitation and awareness. Modern rehabilitation centres are being developed in collaboration with NITI Aayog, AIIMS Delhi and PGIMER Chandigarh, at Kotla Barog in Sirmaur district. Rehabilitation centres are also set to be established soon at Mashobra in Shimla district and Dr Rajender Prasad Govt Medical College, Tanda, in Kangra district. MSID:: 131090632 413 |