The EditorDC Directs Strict Action to Make Kaithal Drug-Free
Kaithal, May 12 – Deputy Commissioner Preeti has called for serious and coordinated efforts by all departments to rid Kaithal of drug abuse. In a review meeting of the District Narcotics Coordination Committee (NCORD), she emphasized both awareness campaigns and tough legal action against drug traffickers.
Focus on Remaining 66 Villages
DC Preeti highlighted that while 214 villages in the district have been declared drug-free, 66 villages still remain under the threat of drug abuse. She instructed officials to prioritize these areas and take focused action to eliminate narcotics influence completely.
Strong Message to Officers
During the meeting held at the Mini Secretariat, she directed all departments to fulfill their assigned responsibilities on time and submit regular action-taken reports. Officials absent from the meeting, including the Higher Education Officer and the District Forest Officer, were issued notices for non-compliance.
She stated, “Drug abuse not only destroys the body but also weakens the fabric of society. It is imperative that all departments work with seriousness and urgency to address this issue.”
Department-Wise Directions
- Police Department: Instructed to identify and dismantle drug supply chains and seize the properties of traffickers. Cases under the NDPS Act must be pursued diligently. Police must submit monthly reports and action updates before every meeting.
- Education Department: To run consistent awareness drives in schools and ensure student engagement against drug abuse.
- Health Department: In collaboration with IMA, they are to organize camps in affected villages to provide de-addiction assistance.
- Drug Control Officers: Directed to regularly inspect medical stores and monitor the sale of prescription drugs.
- SDMs and BDOs: Tasked with supervising awareness programs at the village level, checking for CCTV compliance in medical stores, and inspecting de-addiction centers.
- Irrigation Department: Ordered to destroy naturally growing narcotic plants near canals and drains with MGNREGA support.
Legal Monitoring and Police Accountability
District Prosecutor Sukhdeep Singh was asked to submit monthly data on NDPS case convictions and acquittals. DC Preeti also reviewed the progress of identified criminal cases. Police officers were told to treat drug-related cases with full seriousness, especially when witnesses withdraw their statements. Legal action will be taken against those who attempt to weaken cases.
SP Aastha Modi’s Remarks
Superintendent of Police Aastha Modi stressed that the health and police departments must conduct joint anti-drug drives in villages. She noted that many petty crimes are linked to drug users and urged station heads to keep close watch and ensure firm action. She also instructed that drug case investigations be pursued with sincerity and accountability.
Coordinated Commitment
Officials present included CEO Zila Parishad Sushil Kumar, SDMs Krishna Kumar and Ajay Singh, DRO Chandramohan, DSPs Birbhan, Sushil Prakash, and Gurvinder Singh, among others.
