Balancing compassion, crackdown: Kullu district rallies against heroin menace

Psychiatrists and addiction experts in Kullu are urging a compassionate approach towards individuals addicted to heroin, locally known as chitta, advocating for treatment over social stigma and punishment. They emphasise that addiction is a medical condition — not a moral failure — and should be addressed with empathy and proper care.

Satyavrat Vaidya, in-charge of the Addiction Treatment Facility in Kullu, warned against the rising trend of publicly shaming addicts and their families, particularly on social media. “Such actions do more harm than good, causing deep emotional trauma to not only the addict, but also innocent family members,” he said.

The facility, operating within the Integrated De-addiction-cum-Rehabilitation Centre in Bhuntar, has successfully rehabilitated numerous heroin addicts, including women and minors. “Addiction requires a comprehensive approach involving medication, counselling and continuous support,” Vaidya emphasised. He also cautioned against confronting addicts directly, citing risks of violent reactions and unintended consequences.

Recently, videos and images of local residents confronting and punishing chitta addicts have circulated on social media, drawing criticism from both mental health professionals and law enforcement agencies. The police have strongly discouraged such vigilante actions, instead urging citizens to report drug-related activities through official channels.

Meanwhile, community-led efforts are gaining traction in the region. Mahila Mandals and social organisations have taken proactive steps such as implementing social boycotts, restricting access to government benefits for offenders and offering cash rewards for informants. These initiatives aim to curb drug abuse and build a drug-free society.

Several panchayats have also launched awareness drives to educate the public on the dangers of substance abuse. Working closely with law enforcement, they are monitoring suspicious activities, patrolling hotspots and conducting raids in areas with high drug prevalence.

While these measures have intensified the crackdown on drug trafficking and addiction, they have also ignited a broader discussion on finding the right balance between strict enforcement and compassionate rehabilitation. The authorities have begun seizing assets of habitual offenders — especially those disproportionate to known sources of income — as part of a broader deterrent strategy.

Kullu’s united stance against chitta reflects a growing resolve to tackle the issue at every level. Yet, as the fight continues, the path forward may well depend on the community’s ability to blend accountability with empathy in crafting a long-term, sustainable solution.

Himachal Tribune