SHILLONG, March 11: Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh on Tuesday stated that drug trafficking cases are on the rise in the plain-belt region of West Garo Hills.
In a reply tabled in the Assembly, Lyngdoh highlighted that drug peddlers and smugglers from the plain-belt areas, neighbouring states, and even Bangladesh are increasing in number. He noted that the region serves as a crucial transit point, connecting Assam and West Bengal (via the Brahmaputra river) and Bangladesh.
He further informed that from January 2025 to date, only one drug-related case has been detected and registered in the plain-belt areas of West Garo Hills district, specifically in Tillapara Bongarpar, Tikrikilla. The case has been registered at Tikrikilla Police Station under various provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985.
According to the minister, an Anti-Narcotics Task Force has been formed in the district to combat drug trafficking and other NDPS-related offenses.
Lyngdoh also stated that treatment facilities are available for youth affected by drug abuse at Tura Civil Hospital’s Addiction Treatment Facility, which is supported by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
