Shillong: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Wednesday announced a statewide initiative to combat drug abuse, including the establishment of de-addiction centres in every district and a coordinated crackdown on areas identified as drug hotspots.
Speaking after chairing a high-level meeting of the Drug Reduction, Elimination and Action Mission (DREAM), which included officials from multiple departments and representatives of faith-based groups, Sangma said the government has directed both the Health and Social Welfare departments to operationalise de-addiction facilities within the next three to four months.
He said the centres would be set up in government hospitals, private institutions, or through NGOs willing to collaborate.
“We are hopeful that within three to four months, detox and de-addiction centres will be functional in all district headquarters,” the chief minister said, adding that the government is finalising Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the centres’ management and staffing.
Sangma also announced an aggressive law enforcement campaign targeting retail drug networks and illegal sale points.
Police have been instructed to carry out surprise raids, while CCTV cameras will be installed in identified hotspots.
“We will start with the main areas that need immediate action and expand from there. The police have been asked to act firmly and aggressively,” he stated.
He noted that while police have achieved success in intercepting large-scale drug supply chains, more focus will now be placed on tackling retail-level sales that directly affect youth.
Joint operations involving police, excise personnel, and community representatives will be carried out regularly.
Reiterating the government’s determination, Sangma said, “We want to send a clear message that the government is very serious about this issue. In the coming days, you will see strong and coordinated action from the police, health, and social welfare departments, along with community support.”
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The chief minister acknowledged that most districts currently lack adequate rehabilitation infrastructure, prompting the decision to establish at least one de-addiction and detox centre in each district.
He added that the government will also review the pricing and operational regulations of such facilities to ensure affordability and accessibility.
Sangma concluded with a firm commitment to achieving a drug-free Meghalaya.
“Even one user is alarming to me. We will continue our efforts until every individual battling addiction is rehabilitated and the state becomes completely drug-free,” he said.
