Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on March 28 called for a united front among all Northeastern states to combat the growing drug menace, emphasising that isolated efforts would not be enough to eradicate the problem. Speaking at the passing-out parade of 70 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) at the North Eastern Police Academy (NEPA) in Meghalaya’s Ri-Bhoi district, CM Sarma outlined Assam’s significant achievements in crime reduction and anti-drug operations while stressing the need for regional cooperation.
Sharp Decline in Crime Rates
Chief Minister Sarma presented a detailed overview of the state’s improved law and order situation, crediting Assam Police for their relentless efforts. Key statistics highlighted include:
– Crime Rate Reduction: The crime rate per lakh population has seen a dramatic drop from 349 in 2020 to just 139 in 2024.
– Improved Investigation & Conviction Rates: The charge-sheeting rate surged from 47.8 per cent to 66.7 per cent, while the conviction rate rose to 22.9 per cent in 2024.
– Crimes Against Women Decline: Reported cases fell sharply from 26,352 in 2020 to 5,555 in 2024.
– Crackdown on Child Marriage: Strict enforcement led to a massive increase in case registrations—from 138 in 2020 to 5,498 in 2023.
Assam’s Aggressive Anti-Drug Campaign
CM Sarma highlighted Assam Police’s unwavering crackdown on narcotics, which has resulted in:
-Drug Seizures Worth Rs 2,885 Crores since 2021.
– Destruction of over 1,000 bighas of illegal cannabis and opium cultivation.
– 3,323 drug-related cases registered in 2024 alone, demonstrating the state’s zero-tolerance policy.
“The drug trade is not confined to one state—it is a network that spans across borders. Assam and Meghalaya cannot fight this alone. We need a collective effort from all Northeastern states to dismantle this menace,” Sarma asserted.
New DSPs Urged to Uphold Law with Integrity
The 54th Basic Course at NEPA saw 70 newly inducted DSPs, including 62 from Assam and 8 from Mizoram, completing their rigorous training. Addressing the probationers, Sarma emphasized their crucial role in maintaining law and order while fostering public trust.
“As DSPs, you will be the backbone of policing at the grassroots level. Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and humanity. The public looks up to you not just as enforcers of law but as protectors of justice,” he said.
He also urged them to prioritize community policing, particularly in safeguarding vulnerable groups such as women, children, and senior citizens.
NEPA’s Role in Shaping Police Force
Since its establishment in 1978, NEPA has trained over 5,000 police officers, including more than 1,000 from Assam since 2016. CM Sarma commended NEPA Director Danesh Rana and the faculty for their dedication in molding competent officers capable of handling modern policing challenges.
The ceremony was attended by Assam DGP Harmeet Singh, senior police officials, and other dignitaries, marking a proud milestone for the newly commissioned officers.
A Vision for a Drug-Free Northeast
In his concluding remarks, CM Sarma reiterated his government’s commitment to making Assam a crime-free and drug-free state. “Our goal is not just to reduce crime but to create an environment where every citizen feels secure and can contribute to the state’s progress. The fight against drugs and crime must be a shared mission across the Northeast,” he said.
With Assam setting an example in law enforcement efficiency, the call for a unified regional strategy against drugs and crime gains renewed urgency. The coming months will likely see increased inter-state coordination to tackle these challenges collectively.
