Breaking drug supply chain vital: Experts
With Punjab fighting the drug menace for years now, and various efforts taken in the past and present, including the recently launched campaign “Yudh Nashian Virudh”, where the police have been demolishing buildings of drug peddlers, conducting cordon and search operations (CASO) and regular raids to eradicate this menace, the question arises: Is this enough to finish drugs and ensure that coming generations won’t fall into this trap?
Experts say the drug menace, which has gripped the state badly, requires effective strategies, including the pivotal role educational institutions, NGOs, societies and common citizens can play in fostering change at the grassroots level.
Rajeev Paliwal, principal of Innocent Hearts School, emphasised the need for early awareness programmes, counselling support systems and engaging activities for youth to prevent them from falling prey to drugs. According to him, schools should integrate drug abuse awareness into the curriculum through interactive workshops, real-life testimonials and expert talks.
He further stressed that trained counsellors in educational institutions could help students deal with peer pressure, mental health issues and early signs of addiction. “Skill development programmes, sports activities and cultural engagements can also serve as constructive outlets,” he added. Paliwal believes that parental involvement is crucial and that schools should educate parents on recognising early warning signs and fostering open communication at home.
Chaman Singh, project director, Red Cross Integrated Rehabilitation Centre for Addicts in Nawanshahr, acknowledged the government’s efforts, but highlighted the lack of infrastructure to support addicts who wished to recover. He pointed out that breaking the demand-supply chain was essential, but the government must also provide proper medical support and hospitalisation facilities for addicts. He said his organisation, run by the Indian Red Cross Society with the support of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, holds five to six awareness camps in villages and schools each month.
He stressed that addicts should be treated with compassion and empathy, not judgment and that prevention through awareness was the key before focusing on rehabilitation.
Navjot Kaur, principal, Khalsa College for Women, expressed concerns over the political aspect of the issue. While educational institutions are playing their role through workshops and seminars, she believes that the drug problem can only be eradicated from the ground level once the political motive is clear.
She said until the black sheep within the police and governance are identified and removed, the menace will continue to flourish. According to her, genuine intent and accountability are necessary to root out the drug problem from Punjab.
ACP Jalandhar Cantt, Babandeep Singh, who has successfully admitted several drug addicts to rehab centres and closely monitored their progress, highlighted the police’s efforts in breaking the supply chain and taking stringent action against peddlers. However, he emphasised that awareness is crucial to prevent others from falling into the trap.
He said educational institutions could play an important role by organising seminars for both students and parents. He noted that parents were often the first to notice changes in their children and should monitor their company, spending habits and whereabouts. According to him, addressing peer pressure and family issues could solve half the problem.
