December 30, 2025 : In a step towards safeguarding the human rights of drug users in Manipur, a private de-addiction centre in Bishnupur district has been permanently shut down following confirmed allegations of grave violations, including abduction, illegal confinement, and physical assault.
Acting on two formal complaints filed by the Union of Treatment and Rehabilitation of Users for Social Transformation (U-TRUST) before the Manipur Human Rights Commission (MHRC), the Commission directed the Department of Social Welfare to conduct an immediate inspection of Phirep Rehabilitation Centre at Chini Ingkhol, in coordination with the police. The inspection substantiated the allegations, leading to the permanent closure of the facility.
The MHRC also took serious note of U-TRUST’s submission seeking strict legal action if the same individuals attempt to operate another rehabilitation centre under a different name. Further, the Commission directed the Social Welfare Department to ensure strict compliance with statutory norms, registration requirements, and operational guidelines for all drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centres in the state.
Welcoming the action, U-TRUST termed the decision a landmark precedent against forced treatment and human rights abuses in the name of rehabilitation, and urged unregistered centres to seek proper registration if they are genuinely committed to ethical and lawful treatment practices.
