Leh, May 27: Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena convened a high-level meeting in Ladakh to address the escalating concern over drug abuse within the Union Territory. The review focused on the operational effectiveness of drug deaddiction centres and involved key stakeholders including government officials, civil society representatives, religious organizations, and NGOs.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating a significant surge in drug abuse cases across Ladakh in recent months. The alarming trend particularly affects the youth, minors, and female residents, with migrant labourers also identified as a demographic increasingly involved in substance abuse.
During the deliberations, the Psychiatry Outpatient Department (OPD) at SNM Hospital, Leh, reported a substantial caseload. Since April 2025, the hospital has registered 101 new opioid-related cases and 237 follow-up cases. Additionally, 25 new cannabis-related cases with 39 follow-ups, and 15 polysubstance abuse cases with 40 follow-ups were documented. A concerning revelation was that 64 substance abuse patients tested positive for Hepatitis C, highlighting the severe health implications of the issue.
A representative from the youth wing of the Ladakh Buddhist Association (LBA) brought to light the perceived link between the unavailability of hard liquor and the increasing turn towards narcotic drugs. The suggestion was made to expand the product range in existing liquor stores. Psychiatrists also noted instances of violent and delirium-like behaviour among individuals dependent on daily alcohol consumption when deprived of it in Ladakh, with treatment proving less effective. In response, the Lieutenant Governor assured a review of the prevailing excise policy in Ladakh.
Lieutenant Governor Issues Directives to Combat Drug Menace
Taking a firm stance on the critical situation, Lieutenant Governor Saxena issued a comprehensive set of directives aimed at eradicating drug abuse from Ladakh. These directives include identifying and dismantling narcotic substance supply chains, with the Ladakh Police mandated to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards suppliers and traffickers. Enhanced surveillance measures, such as random vehicle checks at entry points like Zoji-La and Sarchu, are to be implemented to intercept smuggled narcotic substances. Random searches of local taxis will also be conducted, with vehicles to be impounded if drivers are found involved in drug trafficking.
Constant monitoring and surveillance will be intensified in vulnerable areas, including educational institutions and tourist spots. The emergency helpline number “112” is to be repurposed as an integrated helpline for parents and patients seeking rehabilitation and treatment support, with wide publicity planned to ensure accessibility. Dedicated teams comprising a social worker, nurse, and attendant will be formed to respond to helpline calls. Drug Deaddiction Centres (DDACs) will facilitate patient transportation for treatment and rehabilitation through dedicated vehicles.
The meeting also decided that DDACs will be renamed to reflect a more sensitive and appropriate social connotation. Furthermore, separate facilities and rooms will be established for female patients and juveniles at DDACs and rehabilitation centres to ensure specialized care. A crucial step involves collating consolidated data on substance abuse from hospitals, civil society organizations, and private clinics to build a comprehensive patient database, which will inform the formulation of an effective long-term strategy. Skill development and vocational training programs will be introduced for recovering patients to aid their reintegration into society and establish sustainable livelihoods. A mass awareness campaign against drug abuse is scheduled to commence across Ladakh from June 1.
“Drug menace is a serious threat to the future of our youth and society. We must work collectively and relentlessly to eliminate this challenge from Ladakh. Have directed the DGP to take strict action against drug suppliers and peddlers, while at the same time ensuring counselling, treatment, rehabilitation and social reintegration for affected individuals,” Lieutenant Governor Saxena stated. He also emphasized the importance of sensitizing parents through regular support group meetings and awareness programs.
Progress reports indicated that DDACs are actively conducting awareness camps, workshops, and peer education programs. Preventive initiatives have reached over 16,000 individuals, with 337 OPD patients receiving treatment and 53 achieving successful recovery. Several pledge programs under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan were also organized. In a significant development, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is to be signed with Mahabodhi Karuna Charitable Hospital for utilizing its facilities for patient rehabilitation, incorporating meditation and retreat-based healing sessions.
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