📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Prime Minister's Office
Politics
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari says drug‑free state is top government priority
✍️ The New Indian Express
🗓 23 Sep 2026, 09:36 PM
👁 13
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced that making West Bengal drug‑free is the government's foremost agenda, signalling a renewed focus on curbing substance abuse in the state.
Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, addressing reporters in Kolkata, declared that eradicating drug abuse across West Bengal has been elevated to the highest priority in the state government's agenda. He emphasized that the administration will mobilise all relevant departments and resources to implement a comprehensive anti‑drug strategy.
The CM outlined that the forthcoming plan will focus on strengthening law‑enforcement actions against traffickers, expanding rehabilitation facilities, and launching awareness campaigns in schools and communities. While specific measures were not detailed, officials indicated that the policy will align with central government guidelines on narcotics control.
Stakeholders, including health experts and civil‑society groups, have welcomed the announcement, noting that West Bengal has witnessed a rise in substance‑related incidents in recent years. The CM's statement signals a political commitment to address the issue ahead of upcoming state elections.
The government is expected to release a formal action plan within weeks, outlining funding allocations and timelines for implementation. If successful, the initiative could serve as a model for other Indian states grappling with similar challenges.
The CM outlined that the forthcoming plan will focus on strengthening law‑enforcement actions against traffickers, expanding rehabilitation facilities, and launching awareness campaigns in schools and communities. While specific measures were not detailed, officials indicated that the policy will align with central government guidelines on narcotics control.
Stakeholders, including health experts and civil‑society groups, have welcomed the announcement, noting that West Bengal has witnessed a rise in substance‑related incidents in recent years. The CM's statement signals a political commitment to address the issue ahead of upcoming state elections.
The government is expected to release a formal action plan within weeks, outlining funding allocations and timelines for implementation. If successful, the initiative could serve as a model for other Indian states grappling with similar challenges.