War on Drugs: CM Sukhu Calls for People's Movement in Anti-Chitta Walkathon
Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu calls for a people's movement to fight drug abuse during an Anti-Chitta Walkathon in Shahpur.
In a decisive move to safeguard the future of the state's youth, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has called upon every citizen to unite against the menace of drug abuse. Addressing the Anti-Chitta Walkathon virtually from Shimla, the Chief Minister emphasized that the fight against 'chitta'—a highly addictive drug—cannot be won by the government alone but requires a collective social uprising.
A Community March for a Drug-Free Future
The walkathon, organized in the Shahpur Assembly constituency of Kangra district, served as a powerful platform to raise awareness about the devastating impact of narcotics. The event saw a massive turnout, including school students, local residents, and public representatives, all marching together to express their commitment to a drug-free society.
During his address on Monday, CM Sukhu highlighted that the addiction to chitta does not just destroy the individual user; it ripples outward, shattering families and destabilizing the fabric of society. He warned that the drug poses a severe threat to the education, health, and overall social well-being of the younger generation.
A Shared Responsibility
The Chief Minister stressed that since the youth are the architects of the nation's future, protecting them is a shared responsibility. He directed his message toward several key groups:
- Students: He urged them to recognize the dangers of drugs and act as ambassadors of awareness among their peers and communities.
- Youth: He encouraged them to channel their energy into sports, education, and creative pursuits to lead meaningful lives.
- Guardians: Parents, teachers, and social organizations were appealed to keep a vigilant eye on children and young adults.
"Collective efforts and public participation are essential to turning the campaign against drug abuse into a people’s movement," the Chief Minister stated.
Government Crackdown and Public Vigilance
While focusing on awareness, CM Sukhu reaffirmed the state government's commitment to a zero-tolerance policy toward drug trafficking. He stated that the administration is focused on dismantling drug networks and taking stringent legal action against those involved in the illegal trade of chitta.
The Chief Minister urged citizens to act as the eyes and ears of the administration by sharing information regarding drug-related activities with the authorities, ensuring that enforcement efforts are backed by community intelligence.
Cultural Boost for Shahpur
Adding a note of celebration to the event, CM Sukhu announced that the Shahpur Dussehra Festival would now be granted state-level status. This move is expected to provide a significant boost to the cultural traditions and heritage of the region.
Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, attending the event at the Dussehra Ground in Shahpur, expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister for the announcement. He noted that the walkathon is part of a larger, ongoing series of awareness campaigns aimed at eradicating chitta from the area.
Echoing these sentiments, Advocate General Anoop Rattan remarked that the active participation of citizens is the only way to truly eliminate the drug menace from Himachal Pradesh, reiterating that the problem can only be solved through unified, collective action.