Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, May 15: AICC general secretary, MLA and former Minister, G A Mir today expressed serious concern over the growing menace of substance abuse in Jammu & Kashmir and emphasized the need for a broader and more meaningful public policy intervention to safeguard the younger generation from addiction.
While appreciating the ongoing efforts under the “100 Days Nasha Mukt Campaign”, Mir observed that any serious campaign against addiction and substance abuse cannot remain selective in nature. He stated that alcohol addiction, particularly among youth, has increasingly emerged as a major social and public health concern and therefore requires equal attention alongside narcotic substances.
He said that the rising public discourse and growing demand from various sections of society regarding regulation and phased restriction on liquor outlets deserve thoughtful and sensitive consideration by the Government. Referring to steps taken in several Indian states, Mir noted that states like Bihar and Gujarat have already enforced prohibition policies, while in Tamil Nadu, hundreds of liquor shops were reportedly shut down, especially those functioning near religious places, schools and densely populated localities, in response to public sentiment and social concerns.
Mir stated that when several states across the country can initiate corrective measures in the larger public interest, there is no reason why Jammu & Kashmir cannot begin a serious consultation process on regulating the unchecked availability and promotion of alcohol, particularly in vulnerable and sensitive areas.
He further expressed concern over the easy availability of cigarettes and tobacco products to minors and alleged violations of existing regulations prohibiting sale near educational institutions. He urged the concerned authorities to strictly enforce laws related to tobacco and alcohol sales, especially around schools, colleges, religious institutions and public places.
Mir appealed to civil society organizations, religious leaders, parents, youth groups and policymakers to collectively participate in building a healthier and addiction-free society, stating that the future of the younger generation must remain the foremost priority of all stakeholders.
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