DIMAPUR: District Level Committee (DLC) of the Narcotics Coordination Centre (NCORD), Zunheboto, reviewed the prevailing drug situation in the district, enforcement measures, alleged misuse of prescribed medicines and the need for stronger inter-departmental coordination at a meeting held on November 9 at the ADC’s office chamber.
According to DIPR report, the meeting was chaired by ADC, Shaying Sheu.
Reviewing the action taken on decisions of the previous meeting, the committee was informed that a joint inspection conducted by the SDPO, Zunheboto, and the Drug Inspector covered 17 pharmacies in Zunheboto town. Of these, 10 pharmacies were reportedly found operating without valid licences. No seizures were made during the inspection.
Expressing concern over the continued operation of unlicensed pharmacies, the ADC directed the Drug Inspector to immediately verify the status of the establishments and initiate necessary action, including closure of pharmacies found operating without valid licences. He stressed that inspections should be conducted regularly and findings properly documented rather than waiting for directions from higher authorities or untoward incidents.
The ADC also directed the Drug Inspector to ensure that the names of prescribing medical practitioners were clearly mentioned on prescriptions and that all regulatory requirements were strictly followed. He emphasised that pharmacies operating without valid licences must be dealt with in accordance with the law.
Noting that some pharmacies continued to function without licences despite earlier inspection drives, the ADC called for stricter enforcement and effective implementation of regulatory measures.
On awareness initiatives, he directed the School Education Department to intensify anti-drug awareness campaigns, stressing that programmes should focus on meaningful outreach and sustained awareness among students and the wider public.
The meeting also discussed concerns regarding the alleged misuse and diversion of Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) medicines. Chief Medical Officer, Dr. G. Viholi Sema, informed the committee that inspections had been conducted and concerns had emerged regarding the alleged sale of prescribed medicines by registered beneficiaries. However, no individual had been caught red-handed and the allegations remained unverified.
The CMO highlighted challenges faced by beneficiaries travelling from remote areas to access daily medication. He informed that the Akuluto centre was following a daily-dose system rather than dispensing medicines in bulk. The district currently has 1,150 registered OST beneficiaries, including 893 in Zunheboto town.
Seeking clarification on measures to prevent diversion of medicines, the ADC asked the Health Department to explore effective monitoring mechanisms and strengthen supervision of beneficiaries. He emphasised the need for appropriate action wherever irregularities were established.
It was also informed that Zunheboto has only one rehabilitation centre, underlining the need for greater attention to rehabilitation facilities and support services for individuals affected by substance abuse.
Meanwhile, SDPO Zunheboto, K. Phyolumo Lotha, informed the committee that police had seized 580 Spasmo capsules and arrested two persons in drug-related cases during October 2026.
The ADC urged all concerned departments to work proactively with greater coordination and commitment to address the growing challenge of substance abuse. He reiterated that sustained enforcement, regular inspections, public awareness, proper monitoring and coordinated efforts were essential to effectively combat the drug menace and safeguard public health and safety in the district.
