Tripura detects 19 illegal de-addiction, mental health rehabilitation centres

The Tripura government has identified 19 illegal de-addiction and mental health rehabilitation centres as it contemplates measures against such facilities. The government swung into action after recent violence at a rehabilitation centre in Agartala.

Officials on Sunday (September 13, 2026) said the State Mental Health Authority issued back-to-back show-cause notices against 19 “unauthorised” private rehabilitation centres. “Swapna Foundation” in Agartala, where a crime was recently committed, had also been served a notice.

The notice alleged that the centres are being operated without fulfilling the registration process and harming the health of inmates (patients) in various ways. Lack of infrastructure, trained staff, security mechanisms and amenities were also cited.

The authority directed the management bodies of the centres to respond to the notices within a week and demanded answers about why action should not be taken against them under the set provisions. The notices were issued under the Mental Health Care Act.

Officials said under Section 65(1) of the said Act, operating any mental health centre or rehabilitation facility without registration by the competent authority is strictly illegal.

The authorities have threatened action under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017.