Govt officials to undergo toxicology tests in drug-affected districts of Arunachal Pradesh

ITANAGAR:

The Government of Arunachal Pradesh will conduct toxicology tests on officials suspected of being involved in drug-related activities in the worst-affected districts of the state.

The state government decided on the course of action following the emergence of reports, alleging several government employees of their involvement in drug abuse.

Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar expressed his deep concern over the issue and said that they would take action against officials involved in any drug-related activity.

During a meeting of the State Level Technical Expert Committee (SLTEC) on Monday, Kumar said that Namsai, Lohit, Dibang Valley, Upper Siang, Anjaw, Changlang, Tirap and West Kameng are among the 272 worst drug-affected districts of the country.

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He also pointed out that they should teach students about drugs and substance abuse, through various activities, under the guidance of trained teachers.

“Destruction of opium or cannabis cultivation is not enough to curb the menace. Students in secondary and senior secondary schools have to be educated about drug abuse, and it is imperative to involve women and panchayat members in the fight against drugs,” he said.

Activities by women and panchayat members are a preferred intervention in terms of sensitive handling of the matters. Hence, their involvement for behavioural change is necessary for beneficial influence on the ground level, he said.

(With inputs from PTI)

(Edited by Ladiangti Rani)

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