More than 13,000 people signed the anti-drug petition drive organised by the Chithuen Phendhey Association for stronger laws against drug peddlers and stronger support for abusers.
The signed petition was submitted to Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, today by the Chairman of Chithuen Phendhey Association, Ugen Tshechup Dorji.
The petition calls for stringent laws with harsh penalty for drug trafficking and peddling, and also for the review of drug and narcotic laws.
While receiving the petition, Lyonchhen said that the number of people, who signed, reflects the high amount of concern on the drug problem in the country. Lyonchhen also thanked the Chithuen Phendhey Association for the initiative and for the awareness they created.
“People are concerned, and we the government are equally concerned about the growing drug problem in the country. I take this petition as an oath from the people expressing their support towards addressing the problem,” said the Prime Minister.
Lyonchhen also said the government is serious about revising the laws as called for in the petition. “We will study all laws and will submit them for amendment in the parliament. We have already begun discussion with stakeholders.” He also said they will look into revising the Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Substance Abuse Act 2005 as an emergency bill.
The Chairman of the Chithuen Phendhey Association described the submission of the petition as a landmark event. He shared that it was the first time a Civil Society Organization and the public joined forces to call for stronger laws.
The petition drive took place over three days in the capital and for a day each in five other dzongkhags.
