States » NorthPosted at: Oct 19 2026 10:03PM


Shahpur Dussehra gets state-level status; CM Sukhu calls for mass movement against chitta

Dharamshala, Oct 19 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday called for collective efforts to eradicate the menace of chitta (a form of heroin) from the state, while announcing state-level status for the Shahpur Dussehra festival in Kangra district.
Addressing an anti-chitta awareness walkathon in Shahpur virtually from Shimla, the Chief Minister highlighted the state government's campaign against drug abuse and urged citizens to actively participate in making society drug-free.
He said drug addiction not only destroys an individual's life but also adversely affects families and society as a whole. It threatens the future of young people and harms their education, health and social well-being, he added.
Sukhu said protecting the youth from drug abuse was a collective responsibility of the government and every citizen. He urged students to understand the harmful consequences of drugs and spread awareness among their friends and peers.
The Chief Minister encouraged young people to engage in sports, education and constructive activities to lead healthy and meaningful lives. He also called upon parents, teachers, social organisations and public representatives to pay special attention to children and young people.
Emphasising the need for public participation, Sukhu said the government was committed to curbing the illegal chitta trade, taking strict action against drug traffickers and dismantling drug networks. He urged people to report drug-related activities to the concerned authorities.
Announcing state-level status for the Shahpur Dussehra festival, the Chief Minister said the decision would promote the region's rich cultural traditions and strengthen its cultural identity.
Deputy Chief Whip and Shahpur MLA Kewal Singh Pathania, who was present at the Dussehra ground, thanked the Chief Minister for the announcement. He said a comprehensive public awareness campaign was underway in Shahpur to eradicate chitta and that the walkathon was part of these efforts.
Himachal Pradesh Advocate General Anup Rattan also stressed the importance of public awareness and active citizen participation in eliminating chitta from the state. He said the problem could be tackled effectively only through collective efforts and urged people to support the anti-drug campaign.
Public representatives, students and local residents participated in the walkathon.
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Tags: #Shahpur Dussehra gets state-level status; CM Sukhu calls for mass movement against chitta
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