M. KHARKONGOR Vs. STATE OF MEGHALAYA

JUDGEMENT

(1.) Additional affidavit has been filed by Joint Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, Social Welfare Department, Shillong wherein it is stated that high level meeting was convened by the Chief Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, in the meeting, members unanimously expressed great concern about rise of substance/drug abuse amongst children and adolescents in the State which requires immediate attention.

(2.) The Secretary Health and Family Welfare Department informed that consultation are on with NEIGRIHMS for setting up de-addiction treatment centre until the State Government has its own infrastructure to address this complex issue of de-addiction and other related problems. It is also stated that Sanker Institute is an empanelled NGO, Kripa Foundation and New Hope Foundation are also running de-addiction centres other NGOs were provided all assistance and support.

(3.) It is further stated that State Government, in coordination with the respective departments, has decided that the Health department will identify a suitable land for setting up a de-addiction treatment centre followed by submission of proposals to the Ministry under the Central Sector Scheme of Assistance for prevention of alcoholism and substance (drug) abuse. Meanwhile shall continue to provide assistance to all the Institutions, NGOs running de-addiction centres for organizing various programmes, trainings, counseling skills etc. Health department is stated to have made certain arrangements i.e. Opioid Substitution Theraphy (OST) is being implemented in the State through NGOs. At present the State is having five OST centres and all the centres are managed by experienced and dedicated staff.