Agartala, February 9 Altogether 12 prominent clubs in the Tripura capital, Agartala, have decided to launch a campaign against drug trafficking in Santipara, which is considered the epicenter of the state's drug cartels, an official said on Monday.
Tripura is one of the worst-affected states in the country in terms of drug abuse, prompting Chief Minister Manik Saha to implement multi-pronged strategies to address the problem.
"To protect the young generation of our state, as many as 12 prominent clubs in Agartala city have decided to launch a campaign against drug trafficking in Santipara," said Nagadiraj Dutta, president of Aikatan Yuba Sangstha, at a press conference.
He claimed that almost all drug consignments destined for Tripura are being offloaded in Santipara, and that prohibited items were being smuggled in through trucks carrying vegetables, fish, and dried fish.
"We are aware that law enforcement agencies have legal limitations in detaining drug peddlers indefinitely, which has resulted in the release of undertrial prisoners," he said.
Dutta stated that a 15-member committee has already been formed to launch a comprehensive campaign against drug trafficking, and that the committee will prepare a roadmap for implementing the movement against the drug menace.
He described drug trafficking as an internal problem and stated that the committee will seek assistance from the administration and law enforcement agencies to intensify operations against the drug menace.