Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday strongly criticised the BJP in the Vidhan Sabha, accusing the opposition of attempting to politicise the state government’s crackdown on drug abuse, particularly the menace of “chitta” (heroin).

Government Firm on Anti-Drug Campaign

The Chief Minister asserted that his government stands firmly with the police in its efforts to eliminate drug trafficking from the state. He said the BJP was trying to demoralise the police, despite their active role in cracking down on smugglers.

“Our government is fully committed to eradicating chitta. Strict action will continue against traffickers, regardless of how influential they are,” Sukhu said, adding that no one would be spared.

He also praised the police for taking action even against its own personnel, referring to the arrest of STF staff involved in LSD trafficking. The government, he said, has launched the biggest statewide campaign against drugs to date.

Call to Keep Issue Above Politics

Sukhu urged the BJP not to turn the fight against drugs into a political issue, calling it a matter of public interest. He announced that an anti-drug “walkathon” would be organised in Mandi in May-June and invited opposition leaders, including the Leader of Opposition and BJP members, to participate.

Sharp Attack on Previous BJP Government

Launching a direct attack on former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur, Sukhu said the drug problem did not emerge overnight but worsened during the previous BJP government’s tenure.

“Drugs did not spread to every household in three years. Our government came to power only three years ago. The previous government remained inactive for five years, during which the problem grew significantly,” he said.

He alleged that the BJP government failed to implement key laws like the PIT-NDPS Act and allowed the drug menace to spread unchecked.

Action Against Officials and Traffickers

Highlighting his government’s actions, Sukhu said 11 police personnel and nine other government employees had been dismissed for involvement in drug-related activities. Properties of drug traffickers have also been demolished as part of the crackdown.

Political Tensions Rise

The Chief Minister further remarked that Jai Ram Thakur was under pressure due to internal political challenges, claiming that leaders who had left the Congress were creating difficulties for him.

Reiterating his stance, Sukhu said the BJP should support the government’s efforts instead of “seeking political mileage” from the issue, stressing that the fight against drugs is a collective responsibility.