Shillong: An extensive discussion on the drug menace in Meghalaya was held on Friday at the State Convention Centre in Shillong. The discussion revealed that HIV prevalence in Meghalaya surpasses the national average of 0.39%.
The consultative meeting, organised by the Meghalaya Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Home Police Department and the East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner, brought together Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs), Members of District Council (MDCs), and representatives from 76 Dorbar Shnongs across the Greater Shillong Area.
The primary focus was on anti-drug initiatives and the constitution of Village Defence Parties (VDPs).
The meeting was in line with the Drug Reduction Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM) launched in June 2023, aiming to build a “Drug-Free Meghalaya.” This mission employs a multifaceted strategy that leverages the combined efforts of the state and local communities to eliminate substance use in the state.
Recognising that drug use is a social problem requiring a collaborative approach, the meeting emphasised distributed leadership and collective action at various levels. The focus was not only on regulatory measures but also on developing comprehensive strategies to prevent youth from initiating substance use. Communities were encouraged to set up additional rehabilitation centers supported by DREAM.
State Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh highlighted the need to revisit and reorganise the Village Defence Parties (VDPs), noting that only 11 communities are currently registered. Further meetings with stakeholders, including faith institutions and schools, are planned to provide sensitive support provisions.
During an interactive session, concerns and queries from the Dorbars were addressed. Mariahom Kharkrang, Retd IPS, Headman of Durbar Shnong Riatsamthiah, emphasised the need for stricter enforcement measures and collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the judiciary. Improving witness cooperation through closer police-community collaboration was also recommended to achieve successful prosecutions.
Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary & Development Commissioner of the Social Welfare Department, stressed the importance of an empathetic and sensitive approach to help individuals reintegrate into society. He highlighted the critical need for support during early childhood and adolescence to prevent substance abuse issues.
Vivek Syiem, IPS, Special Superintendent of Police (CID), discussed the crucial role of VDPs in combating drug-related issues. He emphasized their role as frontline responders in emergencies and their significance in crime prevention and public safety. He presented data showing a surge in drug cases since 2018 and the challenges posed by new psychoactive substances.
Dr. Bethabara Decruse, Project Director of the Meghalaya AIDS Control Society, presented data indicating that HIV prevalence in Meghalaya is 0.39%, exceeding the national average of 0.2%.
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The meeting was attended by several dignitaries, including State Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh, Sampath Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary & Development Commissioner of the Social Welfare Department, Israel W. Ingty, IAS, Secretary of the Social Welfare Department, and Vivek Syiem, IPS, Special Superintendent of Police (CID) in Shillong. Representatives from Madanryting Village Defence Parties, MLAs, MDCs, and Dorbar Shnongs of the Greater Shillong area were also present. Notable attendees included MDCs Mr. Latiplang Kharkongor, Mr. Pynshngainlang Syiem, and Teiborlang Pathaw, and MLAs Brightstarwell Marbaniang, Adelbert Nongrum, and Sanbor Shullai.
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