Surprise Inspections of De-addiction Centres in August

Shimla July 29

Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap chaired the District NCORD Committee meeting on Tuesday, emphasizing the need for a united and coordinated approach to tackle drug abuse and protect the younger generation.

During the meeting, an NGO representative highlighted a worrying trend of children as young as 13–14 years allegedly using injectable drugs, increasing the risk of serious diseases such as hepatitis and posing a grave threat to their lives. The Deputy Commissioner stressed the importance of counselling for both affected children and their parents.

He directed the police to intensify investigations into the assets of individuals involved in the illegal drug trade, while instructing the Revenue Department to promptly provide demarcation reports in such cases.

The Deputy Commissioner also announced that all de-addiction centres across Shimla district will undergo surprise inspections in August to assess compliance with prescribed standards. A special workshop involving de-addiction centre operators, stakeholders, and subject experts will also be organized to strengthen rehabilitation and awareness efforts.

The meeting reviewed the district’s anti-drug campaign, with discussions on enforcement actions against narcotics trafficking, awareness initiatives, and rehabilitation programmes undertaken by the Police, Health, Education, Social Welfare, and other departments. The Deputy Commissioner urged all departments, NGOs, and the public to work together in building a drug-free society.