Handwara: To highlight the growing crisis of drug abuse among the youth in Kashmir, members of the Chemists and Distributors Association Handwara staged a peaceful protest at Main Chowk Handwara on Thursday. The demonstration aimed to send a clear message against the rising use of narcotics that continues to claim precious lives across the region.
Holding placards and banners with powerful messages such as ‘Say No to Drugs’, ‘Life Does Not Rewind’, and ‘Save the Youth’, the participants expressed deep concern over the alarming spread of drug addiction among youngsters.
“This is not just a law enforcement issue; it is a societal crisis,” said Javid Zargar, one of the protestors. “We request all parents to remove the communication gap at home. Children need emotional guidance and support, something only parents can truly provide.”
Zargar also pointed a finger at unemployment as one of the root causes driving many into substance abuse. “The government must address joblessness, which is pushing many of our youth towards this dark path,” he added.
While appreciating the efforts of Jammu and Kashmir Police in tackling the drug problem, the protesters stressed that much more needs to be done on the ground. They demanded enhanced rehabilitation efforts and awareness campaigns to wean addicted youth away from drugs and reintegrate them into society.
The protestors also made a fervent appeal to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to take strict and exemplary action against those involved in drug trafficking. “Smugglers are minting money while families are being destroyed. We must put an end to this,” they said.
The protest concluded peacefully with the collective resolve to continue raising awareness until concrete steps are taken to protect the future generation. [KNT]
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