By TC News Desk
Agartala, 10th June 2024: The premises of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s office in Dharmanagar have become a haven for drug users casting a shadow on the state government’s campaign for a drug-free Tripura. Despite the Cabinet’s efforts to eradicate addiction, the office area remains a stark contrast to this mission with no end in sight to the rampant drug use.
“Indirectly, with the help of office officials, a number of government and private employees are not only destroying themselves but also harming the future generation, i.e., the society,” stated a concerned citizen, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The office, which should be a place of governance and order, has ironically turned into a ‘free zone’ for addicts. “If you are intoxicated anywhere outside, you will be caught by the police or a social fear, but if you are intoxicated in the premises of this subdivisional magistrate, no one can catch you,” lamented another local pointing out the irony that the ‘keeper is here in the role of the eater.’
The evidence of substance abuse is rampant with bottles, injection syringes and other paraphernalia littering the office grounds. The situation has deteriorated to the point where even janitorial staff has succumbed to addiction.
Allegations have surfaced that some government employees prioritize storing alcohol equipment over valuable government documents. “Normally, when the office closes after 5:30 in the afternoon, it can be seen that the lights are on in some offices and drugs are being used under the cover of those lights,” revealed an anonymous source from within the office.
Local MLA Biswabandhu Sen, who has previously spoken out against these practices, has now, as Speaker of the Legislative Assembly refrained from commenting or campaigning against these government employees. This silence has led some employees to believe that they can continue their illicit activities without consequence.
The health of several employees has deteriorated due to drug use, with some being on the brink of losing their lives. “To build a drug-free Tripura, the office of Dharmanagar Divisional Magistrate must be made drug-free,” declared a local resident, echoing the sentiments of many.
In the face of this crisis, residents of Dharmanagar is looking forward to the call of Chief Minister Prof Dr Manik Saha who stands as a beacon of hope for change and reform. The community looks to his leadership to address this pressing issue and restore order to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s Office.
