Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday inaugurated the Nav Jeevan Women's De-Addiction and Rehabilitation Centre in Mashobra, near Shimla. The CM said the specialised government facility was the first of its kind in the state for women.
CM Highlights Social Challenge
Speaking on the occasion, the CM said the growing problem of drug abuse in Himachal, particularly the use of chitta (heroin), was not merely a law and order issue but a serious social, family and humanitarian challenge. He said that the state government was addressing the problem at an early stage by creating public awareness and taking strict action against drug traffickers.
Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services
Sukhu said the centre would not only provide treatment but also help women rebuild their lives with dignity. It would offer safe accommodation, medical care, psychological counselling, rehabilitation services, social reintegration support and family-based assistance. He added that another government-run de-addiction and rehabilitation centre would be established at Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College, Tanda, Kangra.
Compassion for Victims, Firmness Against Traffickers
Sukhu emphasised that young people and women who fall victim to addiction should not be viewed as criminals. “In contrast, those who sell drugs are enemies of society and the government would show no leniency towards them. The government's approach is based on compassion for victims and firmness against drug traffickers,” he said.
He noted that when a woman or daughter gets trapped in addiction, the consequences extend far beyond her and affect her family, children and future generations. Keeping this in view, the government is strengthening treatment, counselling, rehabilitation and social reintegration services, while simultaneously intensifying action against drug traffickers.
Anti-Chitta Public Movement
The CM said the state government had launched the 'anti-chitta' public movement from Shimla on November 15, 2025, and it had evolved into a broad social campaign involving young people, panchayat representatives, teachers, voluntary organisations and ordinary citizens. He urged the public to participate actively in the fight against drug abuse so the social evil could be eradicated.
Sukhu held that the authorities were identifying properties linked to drug traffickers and warned that no individual involved in the illegal drug trade would be spared, regardless of their influence or status.
