Aizawl, Jun 25 (PTI): Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Thursday urged young people to stay away from drugs and warned that experimentation with narcotics could quickly lead to addiction, broken families and premature death.
Addressing a programme organised to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking here, the chief minister also called on citizens to report drug traffickers to law enforcement agencies, alleging that drug syndicates were exploiting the Mizo community’s culture of trust to recruit unsuspecting people as drug couriers.
“Drugs may be within your reach, but have the courage to refuse them. Do not even experiment with them,” Lalduhoma told the gathering, which included a large number of students.
Describing drugs as a destructive force that ruins lives and families, Lalduhoma said many users begin out of curiosity but soon become trapped by addiction.
“Many individuals begin using drugs believing they will not become addicted, only to find themselves trapped by addiction. Drugs destroy families and often lead people to an untimely death,” he said.
The CM stressed that the fight against drugs must extend beyond users to those who profit from the illegal trade. Referring to a recent case involving a Mizo woman allegedly caught carrying heroin in her luggage while returning from Bangkok, Lalduhoma said traffickers frequently exploit innocent individuals to transport drugs.
He said the Mizo community’s culture of trust and willingness to help others is often misused by criminal networks, which convince unsuspecting people to carry narcotics disguised as personal or family belongings.
“Many innocent people have been arrested and imprisoned after being deceived into transporting drugs for others,” he said.
The CM also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities in tackling the drug menace.
“Drug traffickers are taking lives. They destroy families and damage society. If we know or suspect anyone involved in drug trafficking, we must report them to the authorities. Let them face the punishment they deserve,” he said.
Lalduhoma claimed that drug abuse in the state has considerably declined over the last few years due to coordinated efforts by the state government, churches, civil society organisations, and community leaders.
He also said collective efforts have helped many to recover from addiction and reintegrate them into society.
The event was attended by Social Welfare Minister Lalrinpuii, Sports Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar and senior officials, including chief secretary Khilli Ram Meena.
