Kangana Ranaut, the Member of Parliament from Mandi, has expressed deep concern over the increasing drug menace in Himachal Pradesh, particularly the rising cases of ‘chitta’ (a form of heroin). In a recent statement, she emphasized the severity of the situation and warned that if immediate steps are not taken to curb the drug trade, Himachal Pradesh could face a crisis similar to Punjab’s. Ranaut highlighted that chitta is entering Himachal from Pakistan through Punjab, and the increasing number of drug seizures and arrests of traffickers shows that the state is no longer safe from the spread of this illegal substance.

Rising Threat of Drugs in Himachal Pradesh

In her statement, Kangana Ranaut discussed the alarming rise of drug addiction in the state, especially among the youth. She pointed out that this issue is rapidly becoming a crisis, with increasing numbers of young individuals getting addicted to drugs. She specifically mentioned ‘chitta’ (a synthetic drug), which has become one of the most significant concerns for the state. Ranaut warned that unless immediate action is taken, Himachal Pradesh could face consequences similar to those of Punjab, where entire villages are struggling with the aftermath of widespread drug addiction.

Drugs Entering Himachal From Pakistan Through Punjab

Kangana Ranaut informed that drugs, especially chitta, are being smuggled into Himachal Pradesh from Pakistan via Punjab. She stressed that this illicit drug trade is affecting a large number of young people in the region. Ranaut cited frequent police raids and significant drug seizures as proof that the problem has reached dangerous levels. She mentioned that law enforcement agencies have been making regular arrests of drug traffickers, but despite their efforts, the spread of drugs continues unabated.

Impact of Drugs on Youth and Society

Ranaut highlighted the destructive impact of drugs on the youth of Himachal Pradesh. According to her, many young individuals who have fallen victim to addiction are losing everything, including their possessions and relationships. She shared a troubling observation that some addicts are selling their parents’ jewelry and even family cars to fund their addiction. When these young people run out of valuables to sell, they are increasingly resorting to crimes like theft and robbery to feed their habit. This trend, Ranaut warned, is dangerous not only for the individual but also for society and the state as a whole.

Worsening Social and Economic Impact

The growing addiction problem in Himachal Pradesh is becoming a serious social issue. Ranaut emphasized that the rise in drug-related crimes such as theft, robbery, and even violent acts is having a detrimental effect on the fabric of society. The young population, which should ideally be a productive force in society, is now being sidelined by addiction, resulting in a loss of potential and economic instability. This could have long-lasting consequences for the state, especially in terms of its economic growth and social well-being.

Government’s Responsibility in Tackling the Issue

Ranaut further expressed that the state government must take immediate and comprehensive measures to address the rising drug problem. She appreciated the efforts of the state police in combating drug trafficking but emphasized that the government must introduce stricter policies to curb the supply of drugs. According to her, the situation requires coordinated efforts from the police, government agencies, and the public. The need for rehabilitation programs for addicts and awareness campaigns targeting the youth is also crucial, she stated.

Governor’s Concerns and State’s Response

Ranaut also supported the recent concerns raised by Himachal Pradesh’s Governor, Shiv Pratap Shukla, regarding the growing drug addiction in the state. She agreed with the Governor’s statement that the drug menace poses a serious threat to the youth and the future of the state. The Governor had expressed the urgent need for measures to control the spread of drugs and protect the younger generation from falling prey to this menace. Ranaut agreed that the issue needed immediate attention and action from all levels of government.

The Need for a Collective Approach to Combat Drug Addiction

Kangana Ranaut emphasized that tackling the drug problem in Himachal Pradesh requires a collective effort from both the government and the community. She called for the active involvement of local leaders, social organizations, and citizens in raising awareness and taking preventive measures. Schools, colleges, and community centers should play a significant role in educating young people about the dangers of drug abuse and providing support to those who are struggling with addiction.

She also called for the strengthening of rehabilitation centers and treatment facilities for those already affected by drug addiction. Ranaut stressed that it is essential to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can seek help without fear of stigma. The community must come together to combat this crisis, as the consequences of ignoring it could be devastating for the youth and the future of the state.

Political Will and Government Action Needed

While acknowledging the efforts of the local authorities in curbing the drug trade, Ranaut emphasized that the problem required strong political will and government action. She urged the government to implement stronger laws to punish drug traffickers and take steps to prevent the production and distribution of illegal substances. Additionally, she stressed that better enforcement of existing laws and cooperation between different state agencies and central agencies is essential to effectively tackle the issue.

Ranaut also pointed out the importance of long-term solutions, including programs aimed at reintegrating former drug addicts into society and offering them job opportunities. She believed that if these measures were implemented effectively, they would have a lasting impact on reducing the number of drug-related crimes in the state.

Consequence of Inaction

Ranaut warned that if the issue of drug addiction is not tackled in time, Himachal Pradesh could face social and economic consequences similar to those seen in Punjab. In Punjab, widespread drug addiction has led to a devastating impact on the society, with many villages facing severe consequences like a high number of widows and an increase in criminal activities. If Himachal does not take proactive steps now, the state could face similar challenges in the near future.

She also expressed concern about the future of the state’s youth, as the growing drug menace could rob them of their potential and affect their future prospects. The situation calls for immediate intervention, and without it, the state’s social and economic fabric could be irreparably harmed.

Kangana Ranaut’s remarks on the growing drug problem in Himachal Pradesh have highlighted the urgent need for action from both the government and society. The rising cases of drug addiction, especially the spread of chitta, pose a severe threat to the state’s youth and the overall well-being of the community. Ranaut’s call for stronger government action, better rehabilitation programs, and greater community involvement in combating this issue reflects the gravity of the situation.

The challenges faced by Himachal Pradesh in tackling drug addiction are not unique, but the state has an opportunity to address the problem before it spirals out of control. By working together and taking swift, decisive action, the government and society can prevent Himachal Pradesh from facing the same devastating consequences that have affected other states.