Mass Escape Attempt Thwarted at Government De-addiction Centre in Mohali
In a dramatic incident highlighting security challenges at rehabilitation facilities, nearly 40 patients attempted a coordinated mass escape from the Government De-addiction Centre in Sector 66, Mohali, on Sunday afternoon. Swift intervention by security guards and police personnel successfully prevented any patients from fleeing, averting a potential crisis.
Incident Unfolds During Medication Time
The escape bid occurred around 3:15 PM, coinciding with the scheduled medication distribution period. According to official reports, the patients gathered and collectively tried to force open a wooden door to make their way out of the facility. The situation escalated quickly as they pushed repeatedly against the door in a determined effort to break free.
Fortunately, the wooden door had been securely latched from the outside, which proved to be a critical factor in containing the incident. Despite the patients' vigorous attempts, the door remained firmly shut, blocking their exit.
Rapid Response by Security and Police
Alert security guards stationed outside the centre immediately sensed the unfolding commotion and acted decisively. They moved to block the door from the exterior, reinforcing the barrier. Simultaneously, two police personnel deployed at the facility took charge of the interior situation.
The police officers efficiently shifted the agitated patients towards the rear ward of the centre and secured the area by locking an iron gate from the outside. This coordinated response brought the volatile situation under control within a short timeframe.
Staff Voice Security Concerns and Seek Enhanced Protection
Following the incident, staff members at the de-addiction centre expressed serious concerns about safety protocols. They revealed that several patients at the facility are individuals accused under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, who are undergoing mandatory treatment instead of serving jail sentences.
"Such patients often resist staying at the centre and repeatedly attempt to escape, which can pose direct threats to staff safety," one staff member stated. The current security arrangement, with only two police personnel assigned to the centre, was described as insufficient given the risks involved.
Staff also recalled a previous incident where patients created a nighttime disturbance, assaulted security guards, and managed to have two individuals escape through the roof. These recurring events underscore the need for bolstered security measures.
Background: Punjab's "War Against Drugs" Campaign
The incident occurs within the context of the Punjab government's intensified "War Against Drugs" campaign. Under this initiative, individuals struggling with drug addiction are now booked under Section 27 of the NDPS Act. Rather than being incarcerated, they are directed to de-addiction centres for compulsory rehabilitation.
Officials acknowledge that this policy shift, while aimed at rehabilitation, sometimes leads to escape attempts as patients may not voluntarily choose to remain in treatment. Previously, admissions were consent-based, and patients could leave if they wished.
Official Statements and Police Action
The Phase 11 police station has registered a Daily Diary Report (DDR) to document the event. Aman Singh, the Station House Officer of Phase 11 police station, provided clarification on the incident.
"No patient has escaped; they only attempted to flee," Singh stated. "During treatment, especially when dosages of certain medications are reduced, patients can experience irritability and agitation. Regarding staff security, the police provide full support, but experienced and patient staff are essential to manage such cases effectively."
Komal Mittal, the Deputy Commissioner of Mohali, confirmed that authorities were notified and verified that no escapes occurred. "Police have been directed to take appropriate action based on the facts of the incident," Mittal said.
Ongoing Challenges and Future Implications
This event highlights the complex balance between providing compassionate rehabilitation and maintaining secure facilities. As Punjab continues its aggressive campaign against drug abuse, de-addiction centres face increasing pressures to manage patients who are admitted under legal mandates rather than personal choice.
The call for enhanced police protection and improved security infrastructure at such centres is likely to gain momentum following this thwarted escape attempt. Ensuring both patient recovery and staff safety remains a critical priority for authorities moving forward.
