In its war waged against drugs in the state, Punjab government has succeeded in tightening noose around drugs selling, which will now result in the sudden change of health conditions of the drug addicts. To deal with the pangs for addiction, the government has set up De-Addiction centers, OOAT centers and Rehabilitation centers where the addicts can be treated.Deputy Commissioner Bathinda Diprava Lakra stated while addressing mammoth gathering of DAPO (Drug Abuse Prevention Officers) volunteers here today. He was accompanied by SSP Bathinda Mr Naveen Singla. He called upon the DAPO volunteers to inform drug addicts and their families about the facilities for de-addiction available in government set up so that maximum people can avail its benefits.He added that Government De-Addiction Center is being run at the Civil Hospital Bathinda where drug addicts can be admitted. Similarly, government was running four OOAT centers where an addict need not get admitted. The patient can get medicine daily and leave the place.
These OOAT centers are being run at the sub division hospital Rampura, sub division hospital Talwandi Sabo, Government Rehabilitation Center Mansa Road Bathinda and Central Jail Bathinda.SSP Bathinda Mr Naveen Singla stated that Punjab police was very strict on the issue of drugs. If any police officer or employee was found dilly dallying in the case of drugs, stern action will be taken against him or her. Already SDO Rampura and munshi Rampura police station have been arrested for pocketing bribe from a drug peddler in lieu of leaving him. If any of the officers or employees does the same thing, stricter action will be taken.Civil Surgeon Bathinda Dr HN Singh gave details about the symptoms of drug addict, options of treatment available and the availability of these services in government sector.During the interaction DAPOs gave information on drugs of their respective areas. DC and SSP asserted the volunteers that strict action will be taken in the cases of inputs provided. DAPO volunteers demanded that more de addiction centers and OOAT centers should be opened in district so that the addicts get treatment nearer home.