‘War on drugs needs all hands’: DGP calls for public partnership

Director General of Police (DGP), Rupin Sharma, called for stronger public support in the fight against drug abuse during the 54th installation ceremony of Rotary Club Dimapur, held at Rotary Centre, Midland on Sunday.
Rupin, who graced the programme as chief guest, stressed that the “war on drugs cannot be fought with one hand.” He urged citizens, civil society groups, and clubs like Rotary to become lawful partners in addressing the growing drug problem in the state.
Sharing his experiences from Nagaland and abroad, the DGP highlighted how civic irresponsibility—such as littering and disobedience to rules—contributes to systemic failure. “We often blame the government, but real change will come only when all of us change,” he said.
Rupin acknowledged the state’s limited infrastructure and resources but said that Nagaland’s society was ready to embrace positive efforts. He cited that nearly 5% of the state’s population—around one lakh people—are estimated to be affected by drug addiction, while existing rehabilitation centres can handle only a fraction annually.
Calling for a shift towards professional counselling, Rupin said most rehabilitation centres rely on religious sermons, with little to no access to clinical psychological support. He encouraged Rotary to help bring trained mental health experts to Nagaland through partnerships with institutions outside the state.
He also advised civil society organisations to operate within the legal framework, stressing that drug offences must be handled through proper legal channels rather than local village rules.
Reflecting on his role as a traffic officer in Dimapur during the 1990s, Rupin recalled how fines collected were used to install traffic lights and improve infrastructure. “We collected Rs.35,000–Rs. 40,000 daily in fines and used it well. Today, with double the population, enforcement has weakened,” he said, suggesting that both government and public need to stay committed.
Rupin further assured that Nagaland Police and the government are ready to support civil initiatives, offering logistical support such as accommodation and transport for Rotary members working in remote areas.
During the programme, incoming president Rtn. Pankaj Jain delivered his speech, encouraging members to unite for service and fellowship under this year’s theme: “Unite for Good.” He pledged continued commitment to community service and thanked members for their trust.
The new leadership team for 2025–2026 includes: president: Pankaj Jain; secretary: Vivek Jain; treasurer: Sanjay Kashliwal; board trainer: Chandu Agarwal and others.
Outgoing president Rtn. Manoj Bhattacharjee delivered his farewell message, while Rtn. Subir Saha and Anish Adyanthaya shared words of appreciation.