In a clear effort to curb drug abuse, Meghalaya’s Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma, said the state will open detox and de‑addiction centres in every district headquarters in the coming months. The plan, unveiled during a high‑level review meeting of the Drug Reduction, Elimination & Action Mission – DREAM – aimed to rehabilitate every drug user and make the state completely drug‑free.
Sangma told reporters after the meeting that the Health and Social Welfare Departments are tasked with building the basic infrastructure for the centres. “We expect fully functional detox and de‑addiction facilities to be up and running in all district heads‑quarters in three to four months,” he said. The centres could be set up in government hospitals, private hospitals, or with NGOs, and standard operating procedures are being drafted to ensure community involvement and well‑trained staff.
At the same time, the chief minister ordered the police to intensify action against illegal drug outlets. “We will conduct regular and surprise checks, install CCTVs, and increase manpower in vulnerable areas,” Sangma said. He stressed that the police and excise departments must work together with local communities to target both large‑scale supply and smaller street‑level networks that reach young people. “The police have to be aggressive and leave no stone unturned,” he added.
When asked about rehabilitation facilities, Sangma admitted most districts currently lack adequate centers. That is why the government will establish at least one center in every district. He also said the state will review private rehabilitation costs to keep them affordable.
“We will not stop until the last user is rehabilitated and Meghalaya becomes completely drug‑free,” Sangma declared. The state’s coordinated action will involve all departments and local communities, promising a firm stance against drug abuse.
Source: ianslive
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