AGARTALA: The State Mental Health Authority (SMHA) of Tripura has issued show-cause notices to 19 unauthorized de-addiction and rehabilitation centers operating across the state. This strict administrative crackdown follows recent reports of severe violence and patient mistreatment at a private facility in Agartala.
According to senior health officials, a surprise inspection revealed that these 19 establishments were operating completely outside the legal framework, lacking mandatory registration under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. Furthermore, the centers failed to meet basic clinical standards, operating without qualified psychiatrists, trained counselors, or adequate medical infrastructure.
The issue came to light after an incident of physical violence at an Agartala-based facility sparked public outrage, forcing the government to step in. The SMHA has given the managements of these centers a strict deadline to respond to the notices and explain why legal action and immediate closure should not be initiated against them.
Health Minister officials stated that the government will not tolerate the exploitation of vulnerable individuals seeking rehabilitation. The state plans to intensify inspections to completely eliminate illegal clinics while strengthening government-run de-addiction facilities to provide safe, regulated care.