Meghalaya Faces Drug Abuse Crisis, 10% of Population Affected; Government Launches Reforms

SHILLONG: Meghalaya is facing a critical drug abuse problem, with an estimated 10% of its population—about 3 lakh individuals—engaged in drug use.

According to Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh, the majority of those affected are young people aged between 15 and 29, with the prevalence rate among this age group soaring to 30%.

In response to the growing crisis, the state government is advocating for the establishment of a special court to handle cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Talks are currently ongoing with the Meghalaya High Court to set up this dedicated court.

The government has also established a specialized police station, the Anti-Narcotic Task Force (ANTF), to combat the escalating drug issue. Led by Superintendent of Police Jagpal Singh Dhanoa, the ANTF is staffed with 30 officers and is dedicated to addressing the state's drug abuse crisis.

In recent years, law enforcement has made notable drug seizures, including 42.758 kg of heroin, 13,521 kg of ganja and opium, along with cash and firearms. Over the past five years, 653 drug-related cases have been registered, resulting in the arrest of 1,027 men and 134 women. However, the conviction rate remains low, with only 25 convictions, largely due to the overwhelming caseload at regular police stations.

To enhance prosecution efforts, the ANTF is offering specialized training to its officers, including mock trials with renowned lawyers. The police station has also been authorized to freeze the bank accounts and assets of suspected drug dealers. Additionally, there are plans to approach the Supreme Court if bail is granted to those arrested.

In addition to strengthening law enforcement, the government is prioritizing rehabilitation. Detoxification and rehabilitation centers are being set up to support drug users, as imprisonment alone could be life-threatening due to withdrawal symptoms.

An official involved in the initiative stated, "We cannot simply incarcerate drug users; their withdrawal symptoms could be fatal. Rehabilitation centers are urgently needed."

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