CM Sukhu Announces a Special Task Force to Combat Drug Menace in Himachal

: Category: Latest; Published: 25 June 2023

HimbuMail News Service

CM Sukhu, ADGP Atwal and Trivedi in Shimla on Pradhav campaign

Shimla- Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu of Himachal Pradesh (HP) said a dedicated special task force would be set up to tackle the drug issue plaguing the state's bordering areas.

Speaking at a ceremony held at the prestigious Gaiety Theatre, the Chief Minister awarded prizes to the winners of various events organized as part of the 'Pradhav' (Wipe out drugs) campaign, a resolute effort to combat drug abuse.

Expressing deep concern over the escalating drug-related problems, Chief Minister Sukhu stressed the urgent need for stringent action against drug peddlers and heightened awareness campaigns to rescue the vulnerable youth from the clutches of addiction.

He said discussions with the Central Government are afoot to strengthen the Narcotics Act, enabling the confiscation of drug peddlers' assets and ensuring severe consequences for their illicit activities.

In a comprehensive strategy to combat drug addiction and aid rehabilitation, the State Government is planning to establish two cutting-edge drug de-addiction-cum-rehabilitation centers in Himachal.

Identifying around 50 bighas of land for each center, these facilities will provide vital treatment and support to individuals in need, marking a significant step toward eradicating drug abuse in the state.

Chief Minister affirmed the government's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the welfare and prosperity of the people of Himachal.

Sukhu emphasized the urgent need for modernizing the police department, pledging unwavering support to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement.

Proposing the incorporation of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, he envisions a more efficient and effective police force.

As part of this initiative, four new police stations have been sanctioned, with three strategically located along the Kiratpur-Manali four-lane Highway and one in Bir, Kangra district.

Despite the state's financial challenges, the present government is steadfastly working towards providing citizen-centric governance, ensuring easy access to government services and facilities. Remarkable attention is being given to the health and education sectors, while the government has taken remarkable green initiatives in this year's budget.

While the results of these endeavors may take time to materialize, the collective efforts are poised to transform Himachal into one of the most prosperous states in the country.

The Chief Minister concluded the ceremony by administering an anti-drugs oath to the participants, symbolizing their commitment to the fight against drug abuse.

The event witnessed the presence of Acting DGP Satwant Atwal, who welcomed the Chief Minister and provided detailed insights into the campaign. ADGP (Law and Order) Abhishek Trivedi delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude for the government's support.

Chief Parliamentary Secretary Sanjay Awasthi, RS Bali along with MLAs Ravi Thakur and Malender Rajan, and police department officials, were among the distinguished attendees at this momentous occasion.

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Sword of Uncertainty Over Six CPSs’ Fate Temporarily Lifted: Relief for Sukhu Government

In a major relief to the Himachal Pradesh government, the Supreme Court has stayed the High Court’s directive to initiate disqualification proceedings against six MLAs who were appointed as Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPSs).

This decision, welcomed by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has brought a temporary reprieve to his administration, which was grappling with the political and legal ramifications of the High Court’s order.

The Himachal Pradesh High Court had earlier quashed the appointments of the six CPSs, deeming them unconstitutional, and directed the Assembly Speaker to initiate disqualification proceedings under the anti-defection law.

However, the Supreme Court’s stay has effectively paused the implementation of this directive, offering the government some breathing space to strategize its next legal move.

CM Sukhu Hails Supreme Court’s Clarity

Speaking to media persons in New Delhi, CM Sukhu expressed his satisfaction with the Supreme Court’s interpretation, which he said provided much-needed clarity on the matter.

"The relief granted by the Supreme Court is significant, and we will deliberate on the next steps after considering all legal aspects,” he said.

The Chief Minister also emphasized that the apex court’s interpretation differed from paragraph 50 of the High Court’s verdict, which had been the basis of the controversial directive.

Opposition’s “Childish” Behavior Criticized

Shifting his focus to the opposition, Sukhu took a sharp jab at their tactics, describing their behavior as “childish” and lacking focus on real issues.

“There are no controversies here, but their behavior is simply immature. From toilet tax to ‘Samosa Politics,’ they are just distracting from the real issues,” he said.

Sukhu accused the opposition BJP of attempting to create diversions because of its failure to make a dent in the Congress’s strength during the Vidhan Sabha elections.

“Their ‘Operation Lotus’ was decisively rejected by the people, and Congress retained its 40-seat strength. Now, they resort to personal attacks to divert attention from our welfare schemes,” he added.

Relief Amid Mounting Challenges

The Supreme Court’s stay on the High Court’s order has momentarily eased the pressure on the Sukhu government, but the sword of uncertainty continues to hang over the six MLAs who served as CPSs.

With questions around their appointments still unresolved, the case remains a legal minefield.

The CPS appointments had drawn criticism for allegedly violating constitutional provisions, which prohibit the creation of such posts without legislative backing.

The High Court’s scathing remarks and the directive for disqualification had added fuel to the controversy, creating a storm in the state’s political landscape.

While the Supreme Court’s intervention provides temporary relief, the Sukhu government must now prepare for a protracted legal battle to defend the appointments and protect its legislative majority.

Opposition’s Counterattacks

The BJP, meanwhile, has been quick to pounce on the issue, accusing the government of flouting constitutional norms for political convenience. Party leaders have argued that the CPS appointments were a backdoor way to reward loyalists, a claim that Sukhu has staunchly denied.

The opposition’s attacks, combined with the ongoing legal scrutiny, highlight the precarious nature of the government’s position. For now, the Supreme Court’s decision is a welcome pause, but the final word on the matter could still have far-reaching consequences for the political stability of Himachal Pradesh.

Sukhu’s Call for Responsibility

Amid the controversy, Sukhu reiterated his commitment to governance and welfare. He called on the opposition to act responsibly and raise issues that matter to the common man.

“Significant progress has been made in improving the socio-economic status of the underprivileged during this tenure, and that remains our priority,” he stated.

With the legal wrangling far from over, the fate of the six CPSs—and the stability of the Sukhu government—remains inextricably tied to the unfolding courtroom drama.

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Latest

CM Sukhu Announces a Special Task Force to Combat Drug Menace in Himachal

He said discussions with the Central Government are afoot to strengthen the Narcotics Act, enabling the confiscation of drug peddlers' assets and ensuring severe consequences for their illicit activities.

Identifying around 50 bighas of land for each center, these facilities will provide vital treatment and support to individuals in need, marking a significant step toward eradicating drug abuse in the state.

Proposing the incorporation of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, he envisions a more efficient and effective police force.

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