Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday welcomed the opposition’s support for the state government’s campaign against drug abuse, saying the menace must be eliminated through a united effort that rises above political differences.
Speaking during a discussion on drug abuse in the Budget Session of the Assam Legislative Assembly, Sarma said the debate between the ruling party and the opposition had been positive and constructive.
The chief minister said that while the government remains committed to curbing drug trafficking, there would be occasions when the police would need to take strict action against offenders.
“There will be times when the police need to act strictly against the drug menace,” he said.
Sarma also expressed concern over reports that some de-addiction centres were themselves involved in supplying narcotic substances.
“At times, even de-addiction centres supply drugs,” he said, adding that the government would continue to ensure that rehabilitation centres remain free from narcotic substances.
“The government will always strive to keep de-addiction centres free from drugs,” he said.
Calling for collective action, the chief minister urged both the treasury and opposition benches to work together to eradicate the drug menace, describing narcotics as a serious social evil that demands a united response.
