Face2News/Shimla
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that the campaign against drugs, particularly chitta (heroin), has now transformed into a widespread public movement across the state. He was addressing the closing ceremony of the Shimla Cricket Carnival held at Police Ground Bharari on Sunday evening. The tournament was organized under the theme “Quit Drugs, Play Sports.”
Praising the organizers, the Chief Minister said that active participation from different sections of society has made anti-drug awareness campaigns more effective. He added that the state government is committed to keeping youth away from drugs and channeling their energy into positive activities.
He noted that volleyball and cricket competitions were organized during this year’s Shimla Summer Festival to promote sports and healthy lifestyles among young people. Sports, he said, help develop discipline, confidence, and positive habits while steering youth away from harmful influences.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to building a drug-free society, Sukhu announced that seminars and walkathons highlighting the harmful effects of drugs will be organized in all colleges. Senior district officials have also been directed to regularly visit schools and educate students about the dangers of substance abuse.
The Chief Minister emphasized that police, social organizations, panchayats, teachers, parents, and youth are collectively leading this decisive fight against drugs. He stated that the government is targeting not only drug traffickers but also their financial networks.
Over the past three and a half years, illegal properties worth nearly ₹51 crore have been seized, and strict action has been taken against several drug smugglers and mafia elements.
Highlighting government action within public services, he said that proceedings have been initiated against 123 government employees involved in drug-related cases.So far, 10 state government employees and 21 police personnel have been dismissed from service. He also described the decision to make dope testing mandatory before recruitment to government jobs as a historic step toward creating a drug-free Himachal Pradesh.
The Chief Minister further outlined various government initiatives aimed at strengthening sports infrastructure and providing better facilities for athletes across the state.
During the event, he administered an anti-drug pledge to participants and announced ₹2 lakh in financial assistance for the tournament organizers, along with a 50% concession in cricket ground fees.
Among those present were MLA Harish Janartha, Mayor Surender Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap, and other dignitaries.