Khemchand calls for stronger public participation to combat drug menace

By Our Staff Reporter
Imphal, Jun 26 : Noting that the practice of ‘selling drugs on credit’ has become a major factor behind rising drug abuse in Manipur, Chief Minister Y Khemchand Singh has called for collective efforts to build a drug-free society.
He made the appeal while addressing the observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 2026 at the City Convention Centre, here, today.
The programme, organised by the Department of Social Welfare, was held under the theme, "World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses."
Addressing the gathering as chief guest, the Chief Minister said drug trafficking routes have changed significantly due to the ongoing crisis in Manipur.
He stated that major trafficking routes have shifted through Mizoram, while smaller drug consignments continue to be transported from Moreh to Churachandpur using roads constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
He said that after reaching Churachandpur, Kwakta has emerged as the nearest distribution point for the drugs.
Recalling his recent interaction with Kwakta-based civil society organisations (CSOs), the Chief Minister said they informed him that nearly 70 per cent of the youths in the area are involved in drug abuse.
He further stated that drug peddlers often supply drugs on credit, making them easily accessible to users and worsening the problem.
He expressed concern that areas adjoining Kwakta, including Moirang, Kumbi and Thanga, have also become increasingly vulnerable to drug abuse and trafficking.
Recalling the situation during the late 1970s, Khemchand said heroin and other narcotic drugs had begun to spread among youths.
At that time, he said heroin was extremely expensive and largely affordable only to children from affluent families.
The situation has completely changed today, he remarked.
Sharing his personal experience, the Chief Minister said that being an active sports person during that period kept him away from drugs.
He stressed that sports can serve as a strong deterrent against drug abuse among youths, adding that greater participation in sports would encourage young people to stay away from narcotics.
Khemchand emphasised that building a drug-free society requires the active participation of every individual, along with the collective efforts of local clubs, Meira Paibis and civil society organisations across the State.
Delivering the presidential address, Social Welfare Commissioner Robert Singh Kshetrimayum said drug addiction not only destroys individuals but also devastates families.
He noted that many talented youths have failed to realise their potential due to substance abuse.
He further said the menace of drug addiction affects people irrespective of economic background, gender or age.
According to State data, a significant proportion of those addicted to drugs are below 20 years of age, he said.
He identified peer pressure, curiosity and the desire to experiment with new substances as some of the major factors contributing to drug addiction among young people.
During the programme, two memoranda were submitted to the Chief Minister- one by representatives of private rehabilitation centres and another by the Welfare Association of Blind, Manipur.
The memorandum submitted by rehabilitation centres urged the Government to promptly establish a "Legal Cell" in accordance with the Manipur State Policy on Psychoactive Substances, 2019,  create a full-fledged Department of Drugs at the Secretariat level headed by a senior IAS officer; approve and fund a 45-day free drug-detoxification and de-addiction camp for 300 beneficiaries from economically weaker sections across the State and provide half-yearly or annual financial assistance to rehabilitation centres.
The programme was also attended by representatives of NGOs, teachers, students and other stakeholders.
Later, the Chief Minister flagged off a 10-km Mega Awareness Run from the Western Gate of Kangla as part of the observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Appreciating the participants, the Chief Minister expressed happiness at seeing a large number of healthy and enthusiastic youths taking part in the event.
He also raised the slogan, "No to Drugs," and led the gathering of dignitaries in taking and signing an anti-drug pledge.
On the occasion, Director General of Police (DGP) Mukesh Singh said the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking cannot be left to the Manipur Police alone and called upon the people of the State to actively join the campaign.
The DGP, along with DIG Range-II M Pradeep, Commanding Officers of various battalions and Superintendents of Police from different districts, participated in the 10-km run.
Organised by the Manipur Police, the programme was attended by Home Minister Govindas Konthoujam, Chief Secretary Dr Puneet Kumar Goel and other senior officials.
Around 1,650 participants took part in the 10-km run, which was conducted in four categories: Open Men, Open Women, Men (40 years and above), and Women (40 years and above).