Selja calls for strict action on rising drug menace in Sirsa

MP Kumari Selja, who is also the General Secretary of All India Congress Committee, raised concerns about the rising drug menace in Sirsa and Fatehabad districts. Selja said despite the government's claims, drug rehabilitation schemes have been ineffective and remain limited to paperwork. She pointed out that drug supply has increased by 18 per cent compared to the previous year, endangering the youth.

Selja highlighted that Haryana, particularly Sirsa and Fatehabad, is facing a severe drug crisis. She stated that out of the 22 districts in the state, 16, including Sirsa and Fatehabad, are grappling with the issue. Around 900 villages in the state are heavily affected, with the youth aged between 18 and 35 being the most vulnerable. She added that neighbouring states like Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh were witnessing similar problems, contributing to a regional crisis.

Selja said on an average, 50 people die every year due to drug abuse in Haryana. Despite this, the government has been concealing crucial data on drug-related deaths, making it difficult to understand the full scale of the crisis. She blamed the lack of implementation of drug rehabilitation programmes and the shortage of staff in narcotics cells across the state.

For the fight against drugs to succeed, Selja stressed the importance of public involvement alongside law enforcement. “Combating drug abuse is not solely the responsibility of the police. The entire community must contribute,” she said.

The MP added that drug abuse is linked to rising crime rates, and curbing drug use could significantly reduce criminal activities. Selja called for urgent and effective action from the government to tackle this growing menace in Sirsa, Fatehabad and beyond.

Police to review efforts to make villages drug-free

The district police in Sirsa has announced a review of 134 villages and eight wards in Sirsa and Ellenabad to ensure they remain drug-free. District Superintendent of Police Vikrant Bhushan said with the support of village panchayats, social organisations and the public, these areas will be monitored to prevent any youth from falling into drug addiction. If any individual is found using drugs, they will be treated and reintegrated into society with the help of local authorities.

Bhushan emphasised that all police station heads have been instructed to visit the drug-free villages and gather detailed reports. The goal of the review is to maintain a drug-free environment, as the fight against drug abuse is a collective effort that requires active participation from every member of the community.