Mandi Mayor Launches Anti-Drug Campaign with Community Support
Mandi's Mayor Calls for Collective Action Against Drug Abuse
Munish Sood
Mandi
In a proactive move to combat the rising issue of synthetic drug abuse, known locally as chitta, Suman Thakur, the newly elected Mayor of Mandi Municipal Corporation, has urged for a collaborative effort among the administration, social organizations, and the community to protect the youth from narcotics.
This call to action was made during a courtesy visit from a delegation of the Himachal Dev Sena, which included founder Manish Vats, president Teja Thakur, and District Mandi Mahila Shakti president Sarita Handa, among others. The delegation congratulated the Mayor on her new role and discussed pressing civic and social challenges, particularly the concerning increase in drug use among young people.
Mayor Suman Thakur emphasized that the battle against chitta cannot be fought solely by the administration; it necessitates the involvement of all societal segments. She announced plans for the Municipal Corporation to launch a comprehensive anti-drug awareness initiative in collaboration with social organizations, youth clubs, Mahila Mandals, educational institutions, and engaged citizens.
She stated, “The future of our youth is in jeopardy. We must come together, transcending political and social divides, to eliminate the drug crisis from our community,” encouraging local organizations to take an active role in the initiative.
The Himachal Dev Sena welcomed this initiative and pledged its full support for the campaign. The delegation committed to participating in awareness programs, community outreach, and educational campaigns in schools and colleges to inform young people about the severe impacts of drug addiction.
They highlighted that a unified approach involving the Municipal Corporation, law enforcement, educational institutions, and civil society could turn the anti-drug initiative into a powerful public movement capable of reducing the prevalence of chitta in the area.
Reiterating its dedication to public welfare, the Himachal Dev Sena expressed its intent to continue supporting efforts focused on social reform, youth empowerment, and community development, while collaborating closely with the Municipal Corporation to ensure Mandi becomes a safer, drug-free city.