Himachal Pradesh introduces bills to combat drug trafficking

The Himachal Pradesh government has introduced two new bills aimed at combating drug trafficking and organized crime. This decision comes in response to a rise in drug-related deaths and organized crime incidents in the region. The bills were presented during the ongoing budget session. One bill focuses on preventing drug abuse through strict legal measures while also promoting rehabilitation for addicts. It includes provisions for a state fund to support de-addiction programs and offers leniency for first-time offenders seeking treatment. The second bill addresses organized crime, redefining it to include activities like drug trafficking and cyber-terrorism. It allows law enforcement to seize properties linked to crime and imposes severe penalties for serious offenses, including life imprisonment for cases resulting in death. Additionally, the Himachal Pradesh legislative assembly passed the state budget for the 2025-26 financial year, authorizing a total expenditure of Rs 62,387 crore. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presented the budget earlier this month.