After decades of terror, J&K faces drug menace: Dr Darakhshan Andrabi

Shopian, May 21: Darakhshan Andrabi, chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, on Thursday said people in Jammu and Kashmir wanted to safeguard future generations from the growing menace of drugs.

“People lived under the shadow of guns and terrorism for the last 35 years, and now narco-terrorism has emerged as another major challenge,” Andrabi told reporters during the “Asluk Aalaw” initiative in Kellar area of south Kashmir’s Shopian district . She said people across the region were increasingly concerned that drug abuse could ruin the future of younger generations and stressed the need for collective efforts to tackle the problem.

Highlighting the objectives of the “Asluk Aalaw” programme, Andrabi said the initiative focuses on promoting civic sense, public awareness and environmental protection. People from different walks of life, including social activists, members of the fruit mandi and religious leaders, participated in the programme.

 Andrabi said there was a growing public resolve to work together to eliminate social evils from society. She added that her party was committed to eradicating drug addiction and spreading awareness against substance abuse. Senior BJP leader Ashok Koul urged people to take a collective pledge against the spread of alcohol and drugs in their localities. “We must resolve that we will not allow liquor shops to open in our neighbourhoods and localities,” Koul said while addressing the gathering.

 He also stressed the importance of fulfilling civic responsibilities and called for greater public participation in maintaining social discipline and awareness.

 Koul said the “Asluk Aalaw” programme should be expanded to every area to strengthen efforts aimed at tackling social evils and promoting public awareness.