Shillong: Former drug users who were treated at rehabilitation centres in Guwahati, Assam, have accused the centres of physical abuse, inadequate facilities, and mistreatment. Speaking to the media, they alleged that the centres, managed by individuals such as Anup Passah, subjected them to severe beatings, poor living conditions, and restrictions on communication with their families.
According to Jay Nongrum, President of the Meghalaya Users Forum (MUF), the centres in question include the Better Living Wellness Foundation in Mangaldai and the Alive Again Foundation in Chandrapur, among others. Nongrum claimed that some youths sent to these centres by organizations like the Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) faced abuse, possibly without the sending organizations being aware of the centres’ operations.
The allegations include inadequate food, poor sleeping arrangements, and physical punishment for minor infractions. Victims said they were forced to tell their families that conditions were good, fearing harsher punishment if they spoke out.
The issue has gained urgency following the recent deaths of two individuals from Meghalaya, Rickelson Jyrwa of Golf Links and Meban Syndor of Mawlai Mawtawar, who were under treatment at one of these centres. MUF has filed complaints with Assam’s Anti-Drugs and Prohibition Council and the Association of Drug Rehabilitation Councils, demanding an investigation into the deaths and the centres’ practices.
The Meghalaya government has also launched an inquiry to uncover the truth. However, family members of the deceased have expressed dissatisfaction with MUF’s actions, alleging they were not consulted before complaints were filed.
MUF emphasized that rehabilitation centres must respect human rights and ensure proper care for patients. “We cannot allow those seeking help to face such violations,” said Nongrum, pledging to follow up on the matter to ensure accountability and justice.
