BHUBANESWAR: The State Government has constituted a committee to ensure coordination among different departments and agencies to control abuse of alcohol and drugs besides taking effective steps for welfare of victims of substance abuse.
While the departments have been asked to undertake actions to contain abuse of substances in their spheres, the committee will coordinate and monitor performances of activities by the related departments in regular intervals.
There are several layers of major drugs traffickers who form the vital link between illegal manufacturers/smugglers and street peddlers.
An official said since apprehending and prosecuting them is one of major elements of drug control, law enforcement authorities should work with Central agencies to identify and act against persons dealing in illicit drugs at different levels.
‘’They should also strengthen their action against diversion and illicit traffic in pharmaceutical preparations containing narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances,’’ he said.
The Government has issued a notification asking different departments to act in this regard. The authorities should ensure that irrespective of their status in law, victims of drug abuse have a right to access the available clinical and rehabilitation facilities.
Besides, doctors would be trained in every hospital in the State and an effort made in a planned manner to ensure adequate facilities in every Government hospital in next five years.
Apart from sensitising the elected representatives on drug abuse at different levels, the authorities would also sensitise and conduct preventive education programmes in schools and colleges throughout the year.
Separate and specialised de-addiction treatment centres and facilities would be established for drug dependent females and children, especially in Government hospitals and medical colleges.
‘’Facility of de-addiction centre in each district or as per prevalence of addiction will be made and steps taken to facilitate availability of treatment to drug dependents in criminal justice systems including jails and juvenile homes,’’ the official added.
The committee will conduct meetings to identify and resolve different issues related to reduction in supply and demand for alcohol and drugs.