Anti-tobacco awareness rally held in Balachaur

In a determined move to raise awareness against tobacco use among the youth and the general public, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar, organised a spirited rally-cum-walkathon in Balachaur on Saturday. The event was held to mark International No Tobacco Day, under the guidance of the National Legal Services Authority and the Punjab State Legal Services Authority, SAS Nagar.

The campaign was spearheaded by District & Sessions Judge-cum-Chairperson of DLSA, SBS Nagar, Smt Priya Sood, who flagged off the walkathon and addressed the gathering with a strong and inspiring message. Her presence not only elevated the significance of the event but also reinforced the judiciary’s commitment towards creating a drug-free society.

With students of BAV School, Tehsil Balachaur, leading the way, the rally saw enthusiastic participation from a cross-section of society, including judicial officers, officers of various government departments, school principals, members of the District and Tehsil Bar Associations, para-legal volunteers and local residents. The Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-Secretary of DLSA, Dr Amandeep, along with legal fraternity members such as District Bar Association President Sh SS Kundra and Tehsil Bar Association President Sh HS Saini, also lent their support to the initiative.

Addressing the participants, Smt Priya Sood emphasised the urgent need for collective societal action against the menace of tobacco and drug abuse. She urged the youth to shun bad company, avoid addictive substances, and instead channel their energy into positive pursuits such as sports and physical activities.

“Youth are the foundation of our society. If they choose health over harmful habits, we will soon see a tobacco-free Punjab,” she declared, adding that such awareness initiatives, though small in scale, hold the potential to bring about transformative changes in the community.

Smt Sood also highlighted the role of legal institutions in spreading awareness and supporting the public in making informed life choices. She reiterated that the judiciary stands not just as an upholder of law, but as a pillar of social reform. Her message was met with resounding applause and appreciation from the crowd.

The walkathon moved through various parts of Balachaur, drawing the attention of local residents and sparking important conversations about health, addiction, and personal responsibility. Teachers, staff from the Saanjh Kendra and volunteers from various walks of life added to the energy and purpose of the event.

In concluding her remarks, Smt Priya Sood expressed hope that through continued efforts like these, Punjab can move towards a healthier, more conscious society. She reaffirmed the DLSA’s commitment to conducting more such programs that touch the grassroots and empower the public through awareness.

This impactful event not only commemorated International No Tobacco Day but also served as a reminder that change begins with informed minds and motivated hearts — a message clearly and powerfully delivered under the leadership of Smt Priya Sood.