Srinagar, Feb 16: Congress Youth Leader Tawheed Sheikh has called for urgent and decisive action from the Jammu and Kashmir government to combat the escalating drug abuse crisis in the Union Territory.
In a statement issued to Kashmir Convener, he said while awareness campaigns are crucial, they alone are insufficient, urging the administration to formulate a comprehensive and structured policy to effectively tackle the issue.
Sheikh highlighted the need for mental health support and rehabilitation programs to help individuals struggling with addiction. He stressed that counseling alone is not enough and advocated for engagement initiatives to assist recovering addicts in reintegrating into society.
“Counseling alone isn’t enough. To ensure lasting recovery, we must engage individuals in meaningful activities, helping them rebuild their lives and become productive members of society,” he stated.
As part of a modern approach, Sheikh called for AI-based monitoring systems to track drug-related trends and distribution networks. He also proposed the development of mobile apps enabling citizens to report drug-related activities anonymously, thereby increasing community participation in the anti-drug campaign.
Additionally, he emphasized digital awareness campaigns on social media, using influencers and short videos to spread anti-drug messages among youth.
Sheikh raised serious concerns over the widespread availability of illicit drugs in Jammu and Kashmir. He questioned the origins and large-scale distribution of these substances, urging law enforcement agencies to investigate not just users but also suppliers and drug networks.
“While authorities claim to be fighting a war on drugs, we must ask: Where are these substances coming from, and how are they being distributed? The misuse of medical licenses and pharmaceutical distribution channels must also be thoroughly scrutinized,” he remarked.
Sheikh recommended the establishment of a specialized task force to curb drug abuse in the region. He also proposed fast-track courts to speed up judicial processes for drug-related cases and called for stricter regulations on pharmaceutical sales to prevent the misuse of prescription drugs.
Sheikh urged the government to shift its focus from punitive measures to rehabilitation programs, ensuring long-term recovery for addicts. He also advocated for sports and adventure therapy programs to engage youth and provide healthier alternatives to drugs. Furthermore, he suggested the creation of peer support networks and mentorship programs, where former addicts could guide and support those in recovery.
Calling for a unified approach, Sheikh urged the government, law enforcement agencies, civil society, and the public to work together in the fight against drug abuse. He stressed that proactive measures, strong policies, and community involvement are key to building a drug-free future for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.
