Collective action must to eradicate drug menace: DC Anantnag

Anantnag, Apr 11: In sync with the UT-level launch of a 100-day mega campaign under the Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan commenced across Anantnag Saturday.
To mark the start of the intensive drive, a grand function was organized by the District Administration at the DC Office Complex. The program witnessed participation of Deputy Commissioner, Dr. Bilal Mohiud Din Bhat; SSP, Amod Ashok Nagpure; ADC, ACR, ACD, CPO, ASP, DSEO, DSWO and district sectoral and police officers along with officials, civil society members, and volunteers.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC termed the fight against drugs a “collective responsibility”, noting while administration and law enforcement agencies are targeting the supply side, the role of parents, teachers, and civil society is essential to eliminate the menace from society. He stressed there is high need of creating mass sensitisation among the youth and vulnerable population to reduce the demand appreciably. He further called for active participation of common citizens and other stakeholders through “Jan Bhagidari,” in scheduled activities at panchayats, villages, and educational institutions.
Cautioning about the devastating effects of addiction on young lives and families, the DC pledged tough action against drug peddlers and suppliers by invoking stringent clauses of the NDPS Act. However, he advocated for a compassionate, non-stigmatized approach towards victims, emphasizing the need for proper identification at the village level to ensure they receive treatment and rehabilitation at District Drug De-addiction Centres (DDAC) and Addiction Treatment Facilities (ATF), while maintaining strict privacy and secrecy.
Advising participants to make sincere efforts in the fight against drugs, Dr. Bilal expressed hope that the coherent and concerted approach will lead to a drug free district, UT and country at large. He further called upon the Masjid Imams to reserve a specific portion of their Friday Sermons sensitising masses on fight against drugs by invoking the moral and theological scriptures.
The SSP also addressed the gathering, urging participants to make coordinated efforts and become active stakeholders in the campaign to achieve the goal of a drug-free district, UT and country.
Earlier, the DC administered pledge to the participants reaffirimg their commitment towards a drug free society and nation. Notably, similar ceremonies were held across all sub-divisions, tehsils, blocks, ULBs, schools, colleges and educational institutions of the district.
The 100-day initiative aims to strengthen the fight at the grassroots level through a dedicated and planned calendar wherein specific activities have been assigned to various line departments across the district.