Ganderbal, Apr 28: Under the aegis of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, as part of the ongoing 100-day IEC campaign against drug abuse, Dean Students Welfare, (DSW) in collaboration with the Department of Law, School of Legal Studies (SLS), Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir), Tuesday organised a workshop on “Legal Awareness and Substance Abuse Prevention,” at Tulmulla campus.

Addressing the gathering, comprising faculty members, scholars and students, Dean, School of Legal Studies, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Mir, highlighted the alarming rise of drug abuse in educational institutions. “Once dismissed as a malicious campaign, has now evolved into a stark reality affecting campuses across the region. We are facing a serious challenge, which is very unfortunate,” he remarked, adding that interactions with academicians across institutions revealed a unanimous acknowledgment that drug abuse among students is indeed prevalent.

Prof. Mir revealed how vulnerable students are often targeted through deceptive means. “Somebody not known to you may approach you as a friend, offering help, but their objective is to make you a customer,” he cautioned. He explained that the initial exposure often appears harmless, but gradually traps individuals in a “vicious web” that becomes extremely difficult to escape. He warned that substance abuse not only disrupts academic pursuits but also leads to broader societal challenges. “If this trend continues, students will lose interest in education, unemployment will rise, and crime rates may increase exponentially,” he said. He further pointed out that addiction often compels individuals towards desperate actions, including theft and violence, thereby affecting entire families and communities.

Dean DSW, Dr. Jehirul Islam urged the students not to resort to drugs as a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, or personal setbacks. “Drug is not a solution. Instead seek professional medical and psychological help,” he added. He highlighted the role of families and society, noting that lack of awareness among parents can aggravate the situation.

Thereafter, the speakers including Dr. Raihana Shawl spoke about “Introduction to the NDPS Act, 1985, Dr. Hilal Ahmad Najar — “Introduction to the NDPS Act and Rehabilitation Mechanisms in India”, Dr. Imran Ahad — “Rights of Citizens and Legal Procedures”, Ms Kinjal Bagdi — “Prevention of Drug Abuse and Social Impact” MS. Rabi Arafat — “General Overview of Nasha Mukt Abhiyan Policy, 2025 and Offences and Punishments under the NDPS Act.”