Government Mulls Mandatory Anti-Drug Lectures in Jammu Kashmir Educational Institutions

SRINAGAR: The Jammu Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Tuesday held a detailed discussion on the growing menace of drug addiction across the Union Territory, with legislators expressing concern over weak enforcement, lack of regulation, and the absence of adequate rehabilitation infrastructure.

Initiating the debate, MLA Surjeet Singh Salathia questioned the functioning of Drug De-addiction Centres, citing their poor infrastructure, limited outreach, and ineffectiveness in addressing the growing crisis. He demanded a comprehensive review to ensure that these facilities provide genuine assistance to affected youth and families.

Responding to the discussion, Social Welfare Minister Sakina Itoo highlighted the government’s ongoing measures to combat the problem. She said that surveillance cameras had been installed in schools, teachers instructed to identify vulnerable students, and awareness campaigns launched to sensitise parents against concealing cases of addiction.

“Depression and unemployment have gripped the Union Territory, becoming major causes of drug addiction,” Itoo admitted. She acknowledged that while substantial work had been done, “a lot more needs to be achieved.” The minister asserted that her department was working to its full capacity and invited all MLAs to share constructive suggestions.

During the session, MP Hasnain Masoodi raised concern over the “hefty and unaffordable” charges levied by private Drug De-addiction Centres, urging the government to regulate fees. In response, Itoo assured the House that she would direct the Health Department to examine the matter and revise the fee structure to make treatment more accessible.

Salathia further proposed introducing mandatory anti-drug awareness lectures in all educational institutions. Itoo responded that anti-drug education was already part of the existing curriculum but said the government would consider making such sessions a regular and compulsory feature to strengthen awareness among students.

Adding to the discussion, Tanvir Sadiq suggested appointing a dedicated counsellor or teacher in every school to help identify and guide students before they fall prey to drug use.

Several legislators also raised concerns over cross-border smuggling and the easy availability of narcotics within the region. MLA RS Pura Narendra Singh alleged that drugs were being smuggled into Jammu Kashmir from Pakistan, claiming that the Union Territory had surpassed Punjab in drug consumption levels.

Dr Rameshwar Singh, MLA from Bani, alleged that drugs were entering the region from Punjab and being openly sold “behind police chowkis.” “Children know where to get the substances, but the police don’t,” he remarked, triggering strong reactions from members across the House.

The session concluded with legislators across party lines demanding stronger law enforcement, better rehabilitation support, and coordinated departmental efforts to combat the growing drug crisis in Jammu Kashmir.