State govt committed to combating drug menace via treatment, police action: DC

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Jitendra Jorwal on Tuesday visited drug de-addiction and OOAT centres at the local Civil Hospital to evaluate the treatment and counselling facilities available to drug dependants.

During the visit, he inspected various sections of both facilities, including the OPD registration area, the psychiatrist and psychologist wings and patient wards. The DC received a comprehensive briefing from the in-charge of the drug de-addiction centre about the treatment and counselling services offered to drug-dependent individuals.

Jorwal stressed that the centres serve as an integrated facility where affected persons receive treatment, counselling and assistance in reintegrating into society. He engaged in a detailed discussion with staff, emphasising the importance of viewing their work as a noble endeavour. He encouraged doctors and other paramedical staff to approach their roles with patience and dedication.

Highlighting that youth are invaluable assets, he highlighted the need to harness their energy positively. He assured that the district administration would provide all necessary support to strengthen treatment, counselling and rehabilitation efforts. He stated that a multi-faceted approach to rehabilitation, counselling and guidance is essential for effective monitoring and tracking of registered OPD cases, along with implementing remedial measures to eliminate drug abuse.

He also asked the in-charge of the de-addiction centre to submit a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing treatment, counselling and rehabilitation services while also addressing the need to disrupt the drug supply chain.

He added that the state government, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, was dedicated to address the drug menace through effective treatment, diagnosis of addicts and strong police action.

Earlier, Jorwal interacted with individuals admitted to the de-addiction centre, enquiring about their experiences with the treatment and counselling services. The patients reported that they were receiving satisfactory care at the centre and expressed their intention to spread awareness about detrimental effects of drug abuse to prevent others from becoming addicted.

SDM (East) Jasleen Kaur Bhullar, Civil Surgeon Pardeep Kumar Mohindra and other officials from the Health Department among those others present.