CM Sukhu Criticizes Governor’s ‘Udta Punjab’ Remark on Himachal

Fast Summary

• Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu criticized Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla’s remarks on drug menace, stating they are inappropriate for someone holding a constitutional office.
• The Governor had warned that Himachal Pradesh could mirror Punjab’s drug issues in five years if the problem isn’t addressed. He described the State’s lack of rehabilitation centers and rising cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (340% increase from 2012 to 2023).
• CM Sukhu highlighted his government’s actions against drugs:

– First-time invocation of PIT-NDPS Act in Himachal within three months of Congress coming to power.
– Seizure of ₹43 crore worth of properties linked to drug traffickers.
– Mapping all panchayats for targeted anti-drug measures wiht dedicated police deployment per cluster.
– Establishment of a State-level de-addiction and rehab center at Kotla Barog, sirmour district.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The exchange between CM Sukhu and Governor Shukla highlights tensions over addressing the growing drug crisis in Himachal Pradesh. While both leaders agree on the seriousness of the issue, criticism from an administrative figure like the Governor points to gaps in governance responses. However, Mr.Sukhu detailed steps taken by his administration-using legislative tools like PIT-NDPS, seizing traffickers’ assets, panchayat mapping initiatives, and launching rehab facilities-to demonstrate progress.

The rising incidences under NDPS Act showcase how deeply drugs have permeated society but also suggest improved enforcement capacity.Collaboration between governmental agencies might be essential for aligning strategies rather than escalating public disagreements over accountability.Read more: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister’s Remarks