The northeastern state of Mizoram is grappling with an unprecedented drug abuse epidemic, with the year 2025 marking the deadliest period in the last twenty years. Official data has revealed a shocking toll of 118 lives lost due to narcotics consumption, painting a grim picture of the crisis.
Victim Profile and Cause of Deaths
The fatalities included 100 males and 18 females, with victims ranging in age from as young as 14 to 57 years old. A significant pattern emerged from the data: the majority of these tragic deaths were linked to the consumption of mixed drugs. However, heroin abuse alone was responsible for claiming approximately 40 lives, underscoring the lethal presence of this substance in the region.
Official Review and Massive Drug Seizures
These alarming figures were brought to light during a case review meeting of the state's Excise & Narcotics Department, held in the capital city of Aizawl on Friday. The meeting, chaired by Commissioner Z Lalhmangaiha, saw the attendance of senior officials, Assistant Commissioners from various districts, and officers-in-charge.
During the review, officials also assessed the scale of narcotics confiscated throughout the year, revealing the vast quantity of illicit substances flowing through the state. The department's enforcement actions in 2025 led to the seizure of:
- 45.341 kg of heroin
- 226.607 kg of ganja (marijuana)
- 1.193 kg of opium
- 298.973 kg of methamphetamine
- 48.061 kg of crystal meth
In a concerning trend, authorities also confiscated large quantities of over-the-counter medications, including cough syrups and painkillers, which are often misused as psychotropic substances.
A Growing Challenge Amidst Intensified Crackdown
The data starkly underscores the growing challenge of drug abuse and trafficking in Mizoram. This surge in fatalities and seizures comes even as state enforcement agencies have intensified their crackdown on the illicit narcotics trade. The record death toll signals a deep-rooted public health and law and order issue that requires urgent, multi-faceted intervention beyond seizures.
The situation calls for a reinforced strategy combining stringent enforcement, robust rehabilitation programs, and widespread community awareness to curb the demand and supply of deadly narcotics in the state.
