Amit Shah sets 2028 deadline for drug-free Gujarat
The Union Home Minister urged citizens to report narcotics sales via a new toll-free number to help achieve the state goal.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday called for Gujarat to become drug-free by December 2028, one year ahead of the national target of December 31, 2029. Addressing a public meeting in Ahmedabad, Shah stated that narcotics weaken the younger generation and that funds from the drug trade are used to fuel terrorism in the country.
According to The Indian Express, Shah announced that a dedicated toll-free number, 1033, will be operational from December 1 to allow citizens to report illegal drug sales. He assured the public that the identities of those providing tip-offs would remain strictly confidential and that the Bhupendra Patel-led government would arrest those involved.
The Minister emphasised that eradicating drugs is a collective responsibility involving teachers, parents, and citizens. He noted that teachers should watch for behavioural changes in students, such as a lack of focus or red eyes, while parents must monitor their adolescent children.
Shah also mentioned that the government is preparing infrastructure to combat addiction, including the establishment of rehabilitation centres. He said the campaign was launched on the day of Kali Chaudas to target the drug trade.
The speech followed a high-level law and order meeting held on Saturday. During the event, Shah also inaugurated or laid foundation stones for various development projects worth over Rs 1,024 crore in Ahmedabad, including a flyover on the Sarkhej-Gandhinagar Highway.