International Overdose Awareness Day observed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 31 2025: Joining the rest of the world, Social Awareness Service Organization (SASO) in collaboration with the Overdose Response Team observed International Overdose Awareness Day at Manipur Press Club, Imphal on the theme, "One big family, driven by Hope".

The event was graced by dignitaries, including Watham Basu, Superintendent of Police, Narcotic & Affairs of Border; Ningthoukongjam Priyogopal, vice president, SASO; Shamim Ahmad Shah, Project Director, Manipur State AIDS Control Society; Professor MC Arun, Anthropology Department, Manipur University; and Asem Bhakta, president, All Manipur Working Journalists Union.

Speaking on the occasion, Watham Basu said that due to the prevailing law and order situation in the State, the route of drug trafficking has almost been diverted from the valley districts.

Stating that the seizure of illegal drugs in the hill districts has increased in the last couple of years, Watham Basu said, "Manipur Police Department has initiated necessary measures such as increasing frisking/ checking and opening more checkpoints & Nakas to check transportation of illicit drug items through the State".

He also shared that in last 8 years, Manipur Police assisted by other agencies has destroyed about 18,212 acres of illegal poppy plantation in various districts of the State.

Notably, International Overdose Awareness Day is a global healthcare event held on August 31 every year to raise awareness about overdose, reduce the stigma associated with drug-related deaths, and recognise the grief experienced by friends and family of those who have died or been permanently injured because of a drug overdose.

Comment