Drug crisis, farmer issues dominate DISHA meeting led by MP Kumari Selja

At a District Development and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting held on Thursday in Sirsa’s Panchayat Bhawan, MP Kumari Selja called for action against the local drug crisis and support for farmers facing critical shortages. The meeting, attended by MLAs from Dabwali, Kalanwali, Rania, Sirsa, and Ellenabad, revealed pressing concerns over rising drug abuse and its impact on the region.

Expressing frustration over the absence of the Superintendent of Police (SP), Selja stressed, “Combating drugs is largely the responsibility of the police, and future meetings will not proceed without police representation.” She mandated regular reviews every 20 days, involving the SP, Deputy Commissioner (DC), and MLAs to monitor anti-drug measures.

Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sharma briefed the committee on drug-related challenges, noting significant enforcement against "chitta" (synthetic drugs) but pointing to a surge in abuse of medical drugs not covered by the NDPS Act. These drugs are reportedly being converted into liquid form for injections, posing severe risks. Section 144 was imposed in Kalanwali to facilitate raids on medical stores, leading to multiple closures, although some store operators have appealed these actions in the high court.

DC Sharma highlighted another major issue: the practice of “licence renting,” where individuals lease out medical licences for Rs 5,000 per month, enabling unregulated sales and complicating enforcement efforts.

Rania MLA Arjun Chautala raised concerns over outdated treatment approaches in drug rehabilitation centres, stating, “The centres lack advanced therapies and fail to provide necessary psychological support.” He urged the Chief Medical Officer to improve treatment methods, and MP Selja suggested that the centres be subject to surprise inspections to ensure effectiveness.

Farmers also voiced frustrations, particularly over shortages of DAP fertiliser and wheat seeds. Many reported long waits for DAP, with allegations that private and government agencies were forcing them to buy additional products alongside the fertiliser. A farmer from Kairan Wali, Mangeram, shared his experience of unmet compensation claims for crop damage, despite having insurance through HDFC Bank. MP Selja requested that the DC address his compensation claim without delay.