SHIMLA: The Anti-Chitta Jan Andolan received overwhelming public support on World Environment Day as more than 8,000 people participated in the Anti-Chitta and Clean Environment Awareness Mini Marathon at the Ridge on Thursday, turning the campaign against drugs into a mass movement.
The event was flagged off by Shiv Pratap Shukla, who administered the Anti-Chitta and Clean Environment Pledge.
The Governor said active public participation, particularly by the youth, was essential to protect society from the menace of drugs and preserve Himachal Pradesh's natural heritage.
The closing ceremony was attended by Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who said the fight against Chitta was a fight to protect the future of Himachal Pradesh and its younger generations. He reiterated the State Government's commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks through strict enforcement while strengthening awareness, prevention, rehabilitation and community participation.
Sukhu said the Anti-Chitta campaign had grown beyond a government programme and evolved into a social movement with the active involvement of youth, mothers, Panchayati Raj institutions, educational institutions and community organisations. He added that while the government would continue its crackdown on drug traffickers, lasting success could only be achieved through collective public participation.
Director General of Police Ashok Tewari said the unprecedented turnout demonstrated that the Anti-Chitta campaign had become a people-driven movement. He said Himachal Pradesh Police was pursuing a comprehensive strategy combining strict enforcement, intelligence-based policing, community outreach, awareness campaigns and rehabilitation support.
"The massive gathering at the Ridge reflects Himachal Pradesh's collective determination to safeguard future generations from drugs," the DGP said.
Among the winners, Rahul and Renu Singh clinched the top honours in the men's and women's 10-km mini marathon categories respectively. Dharmender and Santosh Sidhu emerged winners in the 3-km Dream Run, while Gopal Singh and Pushplata Singha secured first positions in the senior citizens' categories. In the 10-15 years category, Sahil and Sudiksha Singh finished first among boys and girls respectively.
All participants were awarded finisher medals and T-shirts in recognition of their commitment to a healthy, disciplined, environmentally responsible and drug-free lifestyle.
The marathon concluded with a strong message: "Run Against Drugs, Run for Himachal."
