'No Politics Over Drugs': Assam CM Himanta Sarma Welcomes Oppn's Support, Calls for United Crackdown

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Tuesday welcomed the opposition's support for the government's anti-drug campaign, saying the fight against narcotics should rise above political differences and become a collective mission to protect society.Speaking during a discussion on drug abuse in the Assam Legislative Assembly's Budget Session, Sarma said the debate on the issue reflected a rare sense of consensus between the treasury and opposition benches. "I am happy that the opposition has supported the government's stand against drugs. This is not a political issue; it is a fight to save society," the chief minister said, adding that Assam must wage a united battle against the growing drug menace.Sarma reiterated that while the government remains

committed to eliminating drug trafficking, law enforcement agencies would have to act firmly whenever necessary. "There will be times when the police need to act strictly against the drug menace," he said, indicating that stringent action would continue against those involved in the illegal drug trade. Expressing concern over the functioning of some rehabilitation facilities, the chief minister said the government had received reports that certain de-addiction centres were themselves involved in supplying narcotic substances. "At times, even de-addiction centres supply drugs," Sarma said.He assured the House that the government would take all necessary measures to ensure rehabilitation facilities remain free from narcotics. "The government will always strive to keep de-addiction centres free from drugs," he added. Calling for a bipartisan approach, Sarma urged both the ruling alliance and the opposition to continue working together to eradicate the drug menace, describing narcotics as one of the gravest social challenges facing the state."The fight against drugs requires a united response from all sections of society," he said.