Dhemaji, March 3: The war against drug abuse in Arunachal Pradesh has got a shot in the arm with the recent inauguration of a rehabilitation centre by MLA Kaling Moyong at Leprosy Colony, Pasighat, in eastern Arunachal Pradesh.

"Rehabilitation helps patients to change their attitudes toward drugs. Many times drug addicts are in denial and sometimes even claim that the drug is not harmful. The first step towards rehab is to help patients get past this denial so that they can make an effort to change. Doctors, paramedical staff and NGOs should help patients change their negative habits related to their addictions," Moyong said.

Moyong appreciated the untiring efforts of Adi Baane Kebang (women's wing) and the Women Against Social Evils in the fight against drugs and alcohol and assured the two groups of all help.

Women Against Social Evils, an all-women's group, was born out of the need to help parents cope with the pain of losing children to drugs. It gradually grew to encompass activities to help parents identify addiction symptoms early on, counsel addicts and their parents, and ensure that society is aware of the evils of drug abuse.

The group began its war against drug abuse and alcoholism in 2011, from East Siang district. Initially called by different names, the group settled on Women Against Social Evils last year.

Family members of drug addicts and alcoholics call its members for help when the addicts get violent. "We rush to the place and talk to the addicts but the lack of a proper rehabilitation centre was the major problem. The inauguration of the centre will be of great help in taking care of the addicts," a member said.