Dharamshala, Dec 5 (NationPress) In a rare show of unity, lawmakers from both Congress and BJP, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu and Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur, came together to protest on the grounds of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly against the growing issue of ‘chitta (synthetic drug)' on Friday.

Wearing outfits adorned with badges promoting a “chitta-free Himachal,” the legislators from both sides raised their voices with slogans such as, “Chitta must be eradicated, save our youth.”

Previously, MLAs from the ruling party arrived in the House displaying the anti-drug message on their attire.

BJP members also participated in the Assembly dressed in clothes featuring the slogan, “Chitta-free Himachal, a renewed Himachal.”

Leader of Opposition Thakur expressed that the Opposition is “prepared to collaborate with the government in combating drug issues.”

Chief Minister Sukhu emphasized the need for a united front against ‘chitta’, stating, “We are embarking on a robust campaign against it, and unity is crucial.”

Speaking to reporters, he remarked, “This transcends politics; lives are in jeopardy, and we must unite.”

The Chief Minister noted that the government has initiated a major campaign against ‘chitta’. “Our primary goal is to safeguard the youth from addiction. We are enhancing enforcement in panchayats where ‘chitta’ is rampant. Assets acquired through drug trafficking will be seized and demolished under the PIT-NDPS Act,” CM Sukhu stated.

He added that the government is formulating a comprehensive strategy to combat drugs by conducting gram sabha meetings and offering incentives for information on drug networks.

Following numerous arrests linked to the drug trade, the state is now prioritizing rehabilitation efforts.

This week, CM Sukhu led an 'Anti-Chitta Awareness Walkathon' in Dharamsala, the state's winter capital, which witnessed significant participation from schoolchildren and residents.

As he walked alongside the children, CM Sukhu delivered a strong message regarding the Himachal government's commitment to eliminate ‘chitta’ and other drugs from the region.

He mentioned that although the PIT-NDPS Act had been dormant for years, the current administration has rejuvenated its enforcement.

Under this legislation, 46 major traffickers have been detained, and he warned, “Every rupee gained from drugs will be confiscated; we have already seized illegal properties worth Rs 46 crore.”