Locals take on ‘chitta’ menace, shame addicts on social media
By taking the reins of fight against heroin (chitta) in their own hands, locals are nabbing addicts in various parts of the district and uploading their videos on social media. Around five such videos have gone viral in recent days where residents are chastising the drug addicts and warning them to not wander in the area again or consume 'chitta'.
A social activist from Manali had uploaded a video of three youths, including a girl, consuming 'chitta' in a crematorium in Manali, warning about the consequences of inaction by the community. Subsequent videos have not only shamed addicts but have also persuaded them to reveal the identities of drug peddlers. The videos showing the locals threatening dealers to cease their activities has further galvanised residents to intensify their fight against the drug scourge.
Many panchayats and other civic bodies had also resolved to curb the 'chitta' menace and some of them had announced cash rewards for the informers of addicts and peddlers, while assuring them full confidentiality. The Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) in Bhuntar has ramped up efforts to spread awareness about substance abuse and available treatments through seminars.
The rise of 'chitta' poses a significant threat to society, particularly in regions like Himachal, where cannabis addiction is already infamous. This psychotropic synthetic substance has seen a dramatic increase in consumption and distribution in the recent past, leading to severe social and health repercussions.
The psychological and physical toll on users is devastating, with many young lives being lost to overdoses. The drug abuse has led to an increase in crime rates, as addicts resort to theft and other illegal activities to finance their addiction. Some addicts become so violent that their families have been forced to evict them.
The police also regularly nab 'chitta' peddlers but there is no end to the menace.
The proliferation of 'chitta' can be attributed to its accessibility and the involvement of influential individuals in its distribution network. Politicians, high-ranking officials and businessmen have been implicated in the trade, complicating efforts to curb its spread. While the drug is primarily consumed by young individuals from affluent families, it is now affecting middle-class youths as well.
Efforts to combat the chitta menace require a collective approach from all sectors of society. Law enforcement alone cannot solve the problem and it necessitates the involvement of society, families, educational institutions and healthcare providers. Awareness campaigns targeting children and adolescents are crucial in preventing drug abuse from an early age. Counselling and rehabilitation centres play a vital role in supporting addicts and helping them reintegrate into society.
Furthermore, strict enforcement of drug laws and the establishment of special task forces can help dismantle the distribution networks and bring the perpetrators to justice.
