Guwahati, June 26 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to intensifying its fight against narcotics, stating that the state would continue its relentless crackdown on drug abuse and illicit trafficking to safeguard the future of the youth.

Marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Chief Minister said the menace of drugs poses a serious threat to society and stressed that the government has been working consistently to dismantle drug networks operating in the state.

“Today, we mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, a subject which our government is working on very closely with a relentless crackdown against drugs,” CM Sarma said in a post on social media platform X.

The Chief Minister asserted that protecting the younger generation from the harmful effects of substance abuse remains one of the government’s top priorities.

“We remain committed to preserve the future of our youth and save them from this social destruction,” he added.

The Assam government has launched an aggressive anti-drug campaign over the past few years, with law enforcement agencies carrying out regular operations across the state.

Hundreds of drug traffickers have been arrested and large quantities of narcotic substances, including heroin, methamphetamine tablets, ganja and other contraband, have been seized in coordinated drives by the Assam Police and other security agencies.

The state government has said that Assam’s geographical location, sharing international borders with Bhutan and Bangladesh, while also serving as a gateway to the Northeast, makes it vulnerable to drug trafficking networks originating from the notorious “Golden Triangle” region. Consequently, the government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against narcotics, combining strict enforcement measures with awareness campaigns and rehabilitation initiatives.

The observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26 aims to strengthen global action and cooperation towards achieving a world free of drug abuse.

The day also seeks to raise awareness about the devastating impact of illicit drugs on individuals, families and communities while encouraging governments and civil society to work together in prevention, treatment and rehabilitation efforts.

–IANS

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