Aizawl: Minister of State for Excise & Narcotics, Lalnghinglova Hmar, convened a meeting with officials of the Excise & Narcotics Department and leaders of Vaivakawn Siamtha Pawl at the MINECO office to discuss the growing drug crisis.
The meeting focused on the urgent need to tackle the increasing concentration of individuals struggling with substance abuse in Vaivakawn, particularly from various localities in Aizawl and nearby districts. According to reports from Vaivakawn Siamtha Pawl, more than 200 people with substance abuse issues frequently gather in this area, leading to unsafe and disruptive conditions in residential neighborhoods.
The congregation of addicts in Vaivakawn has led to public distress, especially for women and children, and has disrupted the peace in residential neighborhoods. In recent months, there have been multiple cases of robbery and theft reported from community spaces, including churches, Anganwadi centers, YMA properties, and private homes. Residents say these incidents have created a climate of fear and insecurity in the area.
To ensure that the supply of food or essentials does not indirectly encourage such gatherings, Vaivakawn Siamtha Pawl announced its decision to inform food donors to consult with them before any such distribution.
Excise & Narcotics Commissioner Z. Lalhmangaiha, presenting data from the department’s internal study, stated that nearly 80% of the substance abusers frequenting Vaivakawn have homes of their own but gather in the area primarily due to easy access to drugs. He noted that approximately 60% of them are released from the TBCC facility, 5% from the Hulhliap Project, while the rest are from other locations. The department is actively monitoring the situation and conducts mobile patrols within the city.
Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar, while addressing the meeting, described the rising number of addicts as alarming. “We must now firmly stand together and prevent the area from becoming a haven for drug users,” he said, expressing his intent to work closely with both local leaders and the community to find lasting solutions.
As a first step, the Excise Minister also handed over a cash contribution of Rs 2 lakh to Vaivakawn Siamtha Pawl to support their ongoing efforts in maintaining safety and rehabilitation in the area.
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