The Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) leadership has expressed its concern on the rising drug menace.
A party spokesperson Waseem Yaqoob said, “Growing number of drug addicts mostly teenagers in Kashmir is worrisome. We believe it is crucial for us as a society to express our collective concern to get rid of drug menace.”
The statement further urges upon the local law enforcement agencies to act against drug peddlers on war footing.
Kashmir, known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural ethos is unfortunately witnessing a surge in drug menace, particularly among youth. This cancerous menace poses a grave threat to the future of our youth, and immediate action is required to address this issue effectively.
Data regarding drug usage in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) paints a distressing picture. According to recent reports, the number of drug-related incidents has risen significantly over the past few years.
“Our region has become a transit point for the smuggling of drugs, making it easier for them to reach our communities. The availability of substances such as cannabis, heroin, and synthetic drugs has seen a worrisome rise, especially among teenagers”, he said.
He added, “As a responsible political party, we emphasize the importance of a multi-pronged approach to tackle this menace. We urge the LG administration to take concrete steps to address the issue promptly. We request the administration to increase the number of rehabilitation centers dedicated to helping those affected by drug addiction. However, we emphasize the need for these centers to be closely monitored by designated officers to ensure their efficacy. It has come to our attention that some rehabilitation centers have failed to produce desirable results, and it is imperative that these lapses are rectified.”
“In addition to rehabilitation centers, we advocate for the inclusion of comprehensive drug education programs in schools. It is crucial to equip our young generation with the necessary knowledge and skills to make informed choices and resist the allure of drugs. By providing proper information and raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, we can create a society that is better prepared to combat this issue.”
Waseem Yaqoob said, “We extend our appeal to the citizens of Kashmir, urging them to come forward and collaborate with law enforcement agencies. Together, we can build a safer and drug-free environment for our communities. By reporting suspicious activities, sharing information, and cooperating with the police, we can significantly contribute to curbing the drug menace.”
He said, “The Democratic Progressive Azad Party stands united with the people of Kashmir in their fight against drug abuse. We urge the LG administration to implement stringent measures to halt the influx of drugs into our region. Only by working collectively and taking decisive action we can ensure a brighter and drug-free future for our youth.”
