DC Leh Santosh Sukhadeve Calls for United Front Against Drug Menace in Ladakh

Leh, April 5, 2025: The Deputy Commissioner Leh, Santosh Sukhadeve, reviews drug fighting efforts during a District-level NCORD committee meeting at the Video Conference Hall, DC Office Leh. The meeting was attended by committee members to address pressing issues of drug and substance abuse and strategize effective measures for prevention and awareness.
As per the report presented by Additional Superintendent of Police Rigzin Samdup, two drug-related cases were registered at the Leh Police Station this year so far. Over the past four years, drugs like charas and ganja have seen a decline in usage among students. However, consumption of drugs like herion has increased alarmingly among youth.
Key discussions focused on rising incidents of drug abuse and the urgent need for inter-departmental coordination to combat the problem. The meeting emphasized engaging stakeholders, including schools and local communities, in awareness and preventive initiatives.
Government officials and private organizations, like the Yato Club, are conducting regular awareness programs in schools and colleges to educate students about the harmful effects of drugs. Teachers are also playing an important role in guiding and helping students overcome addiction.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Nurzin Angmo and Psychiatrist Dr. Padma Angmo emphasized on improving the rehabilitation center in Leh. They expressed concern over the vacant position of a Doctor to treat at the De-addiction Centre and requested changes in recruitment rule for better medical facilities.
Due to increasing cases of drug and alcohol abuse, officials demanded strict checking at entry points and stronger policies to control drug supply. Discussions were also held on imposing fines for consuming addictive substances in public places and preventing easy access to drugs among students.
Luv Kumar Singh from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Srinagar attended the meeting, providing an update on modern drug detection machine kits urgently required in regions like Leh and Kargil.
The DC Leh urges Collective Action Against Drug Menace in Ladakh. The meeting concluded with a commitment to developing actionable solutions. The meeting was attended by Additional Superintendent of Police Rigzin Samdup, Chief Medical Officer, Chief Education Officer, District Social Welfare Officer, and other officers and officials from the committee.