Himachal Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Ashok Tewari has urged students, parents, and teachers to actively participate in the state’s ongoing anti-chitta drive, emphasizing the collective responsibility in safeguarding the younger generation from drug abuse.
The Chenab Times has learned that the DGP made this appeal while addressing students and parents as the chief guest at the annual day function of the Convent of Jesus and Mary (CJM), Chelsea, a prominent school in the state capital. He characterized the anti-chitta drive not just as a police operation against drug traffickers but as a societal movement to protect the future of the state’s youth.
A People’s Movement Against Drugs
DGP Tewari implored students to act as ambassadors for the campaign among their peers and families. He also encouraged parents and educators to maintain vigilance against the escalating threat of chitta, a potent synthetic drug. “Prevention of drug abuse must begin at home and in schools through awareness, open communication, early identification of warning signs and timely intervention,” Tewari stated.
He stressed the crucial role of the home environment, referring to parents as the first teachers. The DGP emphasized that the values, confidence, and courage instilled in children today would significantly influence the decisions they make in the future. He particularly appealed to parents to dedicate quality time to their children, actively listen to their concerns, and foster an atmosphere of trust where children feel comfortable discussing their problems.
The police chief noted that young individuals often grapple with pressures related to academic performance, peer acceptance, and societal expectations. In this context, parental understanding and emotional support are paramount. He advised students to embrace life with curiosity, courage, and kindness, drawing parallels with the annual day theme, “Ocean Odyssey.” Success, he articulated, should not be solely measured by academic or professional achievements but by the quality of the human beings they become.
DGP Tewari encouraged students to stand firm for righteousness, resist negative peer pressure, and avoid letting temporary setbacks define their future trajectories. He also commended the students, teachers, and parents for their dedication and hard work in organizing and executing the event, which featured various colourful performances including drills, band displays, karate, and skating.
In conjunction with the awareness initiative, the police also established an information stall at the school to educate attendees about the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112), a vital public safety initiative.
The anti-chitta drive aims to curb the rising incidence of synthetic drug abuse, particularly heroin derivatives like chitta, which has become a growing concern in Himachal Pradesh and other parts of India. Authorities have been increasing efforts to intercept drug trafficking networks and conduct awareness programmes to deter young people from experimenting with and becoming addicted to these substances. The involvement of educational institutions and families is considered a critical component of these preventive measures.
Synthetic drugs like chitta, often a mix of heroin and other chemicals, are highly addictive and have devastating health consequences. Their accessibility and affordability can make them particularly attractive to vulnerable youth. The state police have been actively engaged in raids and seizures, alongside community outreach programs, to tackle the menace. The DGP’s call for broader participation underscores the government’s strategy to address drug abuse as a multi-faceted issue requiring a united front from all sections of society.
The emphasis on early intervention and open communication within families is a recognized strategy to identify potential issues before they escalate. Schools play a significant role in disseminating information and providing a supportive environment. The ERSS-112 initiative aims to streamline emergency response services across the state, providing a single point of contact for various critical situations, including those related to drug abuse emergencies.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
