The district police’s anti-narcotics initiative, ‘War against drugs’, is receiving widespread public support and showing commendable results, said Superintendent of Police Bhagat Singh Thakur while addressing a gathering at the conclusion of a declamation contest held at the Town Hall on Thursday. On the occasion, he also formally launched the second phase of the campaign.
SP Thakur shared that the first phase of the campaign, initiated in October last year, involved extensive outreach across gram panchayats and educational institutions. Police teams conducted awareness camps focusing on youth and children, aiming to educate them on the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of a drug-free society.
He noted that the district police have successfully apprehended several major drug peddlers, achieving a 600 per cent increase in the confiscation of chitta compared to last year. “Those involved in drug consumption or smuggling will be put behind bars,” he said, stressing that public cooperation is crucial in combating this menace.
“Drug addicts will either end up in jail or de-addiction centres,” he added, revealing that of 280 individuals subjected to medical tests, 125 were found to be drug-dependent.
Highlighting a state government initiative, SP Thakur said police officers in the district have adopted 41 schools, where they are regularly engaging with students to raise awareness about the ill effects of drugs. He urged residents of the district to actively contribute to the mission of eradicating drug addiction from society.
Earlier, Dr Anil Chauhan, former Principal of the Medical College, and Dr Ajay Atri, officiating Chief Medical Officer, also addressed the audience, emphasising the growing threat of substance abuse.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Rajesh Tomar (Judge, Himachal Pradesh Transport Appellate Authority), District Attorney Sandeep Agnihotri, ASP (Vigilance) Renu Sharma, SDM Sanjit Singh and other senior officials.
As part of the event, a declamation contest was held where 20 students from 10 local schools spoke passionately on the issue of drug addiction. Sadiq of Him Academy Public School, Vikasnagar secured the first place. Shirin of Him Academy Public School and Kashvi Dhiman of DAV School shared the second position. Lakshita from Super Magnet School bagged the third spot. Ananyashree (Him Academy) and Tanisha (Him Academy, Hiranagar) received consolation prizes.
The competition was judged by Dr Mukul Sharma and Dr Virendra Pratap Singh from Degree College Hamirpur and Samakshi, an officer from a voluntary organisation.
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