SHIMLA: In a move to combat the escalating drug menace, the Himachal Pradesh Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution urging the Central Government to amend the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
The proposed amendments aim to classify all offenses related to 'chitta' (adulterated heroin) as non-bailable and to treat deaths resulting from its consumption as equivalent to murder.
Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to eradicating drug abuse in the state. He highlighted alarming statistics, noting that Himachal Pradesh's drug abuse rate stands at 3.5%, significantly higher than the national average of 1.2%.
To strengthen enforcement, the government plans to deploy 500 personnel across three units dedicated to combating the drug trade.
Additionally, inspections of de-addiction centers are slated to ensure they do not become hubs for drug distribution.
The state has also sought the intervention of the Enforcement Directorate to seize assets worth ₹30 crore from individuals involved in drug trafficking.
This resolution reflects a broader trend in Himachal Pradesh's legislative efforts to impose stricter penalties for substance-related offenses.
Earlier, the Assembly passed the Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which introduced harsher punishments for the illicit manufacture and sale of liquor, including fines up to ₹3 lakh and imprisonment ranging from six months to three years.
The Assembly's recent actions underscore a comprehensive approach to tackling substance abuse, focusing on stringent legal measures and robust enforcement to safeguard the state's youth and communities
