Assam minister announces measures to improve treatment of drug addicts

GUWAHATI: In a move aimed at improving the treatment and care of drug addicts in Assam, state minister Pijush Hazarika announced the formulation of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to address the issue effectively.

Stating that drug addicts are individuals who are integral members of society, Assam minister Pijush Hazarika stressed on the importance of providing them with proper care and support.

Hazarika revealed that the SOP is set to be implemented starting from August 1.

Notably, a three-month grace period will be granted to existing rehabilitation centres to align themselves with the new guidelines.

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Failure to comply with the SOP within the stipulated timeframe will result in the closure of non-compliant rehab facilities.

Assam minister Pijush Hazarika said: “Drug addicts are also people of society. So, we can't allow anyone to give them bad treatment.”

The Assam government aims to create a comprehensive and compassionate framework for addressing drug addiction in the state, said Hazarika.

Earlier, Assam minister Pijush Hazarika chaired a meeting on SOP for de-addiction cum rehabilitation centres in Guwahati.