Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 17: Expressing concern over the growing menace of drug addiction among youth in Jammu and Kashmir, the Bhartiya Dalit Sahitya Akademi (BDSA) today called for a comprehensive and coordinated strategy combining awareness, rehabilitation, strict enforcement and employment generation to tackle the crisis effectively.
The issue was discussed during a meeting held at the Akademi’s Roopnagar premises under the chairmanship of B R Kundal, president of BDSA. Participants observed that while the Government has initiated awareness campaigns against substance abuse, these efforts alone are insufficient unless supported by strong curative, rehabilitative and preventive measures.
Speakers pointed out that rising unemployment, social isolation and easy accessibility of drugs are among the major factors pushing youth towards addiction. They stressed the need to break drug supply chains and strengthen enforcement mechanisms to make anti-drug initiatives more effective.
Addressing the meeting, Kundal described drug abuse as a serious social and public health challenge that places heavy physical, emotional and financial burdens on affected families. He called for a broader approach involving prevention, treatment and long-term rehabilitation.
Concern was also expressed over the inadequate number of quality de-addiction and rehabilitation centres in the Union Territory. Participants urged the Government to invest in better healthcare infrastructure and trained personnel for addiction treatment and recovery support.
Kundal proposed setting up a high-level commission involving social welfare, anti-narcotics agencies, police and educational institutions to study the root causes of drug abuse and formulate targeted interventions. He further stressed the need for skill development programmes and employment opportunities to empower youth and reduce their vulnerability to substance abuse.
Members resolved to launch awareness programmes from the BDSA premises and assured cooperation with Government agencies in combating the drug menace. Proceedings were conducted by RL Bhagat.
Others present on the occasion were Nagarmal, PL Bhushan, Rajesh Angural, Mohan Thappa, Sevadass Digra, S D Thappa, Mohan Lal Hans, Harbans Lal, Vijay Bhagat and Dr Rakesh Kumar Atri.
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