Chaprakata villagers unite against escalating drug crisis in Assam's Bongaigaon

Amid growing concern over the rising prevalence of drug abuse and illegal narcotics trade, residents of Chaprakata (Second Part - Bhoshamari), under Bongaigaon Sadar Police Station, have come together in a collective stand against the drug menace threatening their community.

At a recently held public meeting presided over by Kalen Ray, President of the Village Development Committee, locals resolved to build a drug-free society through grassroots vigilance and community action. The meeting was attended by social workers, journalists, officials from the Assam State Rural Livelihood Mission (ASRLM), and concerned citizens from various walks of life.

Highlighting the alarming surge in both drug dealers and addicts in the region—particularly among students—villagers expressed deep anxiety over the deteriorating social environment. Speakers shared harrowing accounts of families affected by addiction, underlining the urgent need for coordinated intervention.

As a bold step, residents announced a reward of ₹10,000 for any individual who apprehends a drug dealer red-handed. They further resolved to actively confront and expose those engaged in the narcotics trade, pledging community support for direct action. Groups will now begin visiting suspected drug peddlers' residences to issue warnings and demand an end to such activities.

Though law enforcement had earlier arrested two individuals involved in drug peddling, locals noted with frustration that the accused have resumed their illegal operations after being released from jail. This pattern of repeat offenses has intensified the urgency for community-led efforts, supplemented by official action.

To build further momentum, villagers have planned a drug awareness meeting on June 7, in collaboration with local authorities, to engage more stakeholders in their fight against this rising threat.

Calling on both the district administration and the police for stronger support, the residents of Chaprakata have firmly committed to safeguarding their youth and restoring social harmony by eliminating the root causes of drug abuse and trafficking from their village.