Shillong, Oct 24: Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh on Thursday said the government is doing a lot to combat the growing drug menace in the State, informing that it has a lot of leads on the hideouts of major characters involved in the drug trafficking business and the supply chain.

Stating that the issue of drug trafficking is sensitive and all details cannot be revealed to the public, he said, “Drug trafficking and narcotics are highly sensitive matters. It’s challenging to share all the details openly. We are dealing with professionals in the drug trafficking business, and we have leads on their hideouts. We need to tackle the issue at its root by addressing the supply chain.”

“To a casual observer, it may seem like we are not doing enough, but results are showing, and we are better positioned to combat this menace than ever before,” he added.

He said the high level of drug addiction, drug trafficking, and the large number of single-parent families are serious concerns.

When asked about the upcoming public rally by the Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) on November 8, Lyngdoh maintained a neutral stance, acknowledging the role of NGOs in society. “We have no issues; I have no problem with NGOs doing their work as long as they stay within the boundaries of the law. We are here to uphold the law, and there is a need to revamp the state police to equip them with more authority. One key area is the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), and I have ideas to discuss with the Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Home (Police),” Lyngdoh stated.

He emphasized that NGOs have the right to protest but should adhere to the law. “NGOs are free to express their dissatisfaction, but they must not cross the boundaries of the rule of law. As a state, we must protect our progress.”

He further informed that Shillong has recently been recognized as the most preferred destination among Indians, which is a great honour for Meghalaya. “By 2025, we expect a 70% increase in tourist footfall. We need to keep this in mind and not let emotions or hostility towards the system hinder our progress,” he said.

It may be mentioned that the HYC is organizing a public rally on November 8, calling for stronger government action to address the escalating drug crisis. The group plans to march to the Secretariat in Shillong to present seven key demands aimed at combating drug trafficking and addiction. The HYC has previously expressed dissatisfaction with the slow implementation of the state’s Drug Reduction, Elimination, and Action Mission (DREAM), urging the government to take more decisive and timely measures.

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