Bhubaneswar: In the wake of a controversy surrounding the death of an inmate at a private de-addiction centre in the Dharmasala area of Jajpur district last week, the Odisha Government has decided to formulate standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the registration and regulation of de-addiction centres across the state.

In a letter issued to District Social Security Officers (DSSOs), the Department of Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities has directed them to submit a detailed report on existing drug de-addiction centres in their respective districts. This includes centres run by the Government of India, the Odisha Government, and private operators. The DSSOs have been asked to submit their reports within seven days.

Additionally, the officers have been instructed to provide suggestions for framing comprehensive guidelines and SOPs for the registration and regulation of these centres under the provisions of the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017.

Inmate deaths raised concerns

The move comes after an inmate at a private de-addiction centre in Jajpur district died under mysterious circumstances last week. While the exact cause of death is yet to be determined, the deceased’s family has alleged foul play, triggering tension and unrest in the area.

The incident has also brought renewed scrutiny on the functioning of other de-addiction centres in the state. Concerns have been raised over their management and oversight, particularly in light of reports of several suspicious inmate deaths in recent times.

In response, the state government has initiated steps to review the entire system to ensure better regulation, accountability, and safety standards in such facilities.