JBM initiates interaction against Drug Trafficking, urges immediate government action

Jammu, Feb 22:

The Jammu Province Bachao Manch (JBM), led by its Chairman Advocate Ashok Sharma, former MLA and MLC held an interaction session at BanTalab, Jammu to discuss about the growing menace of drug. The interaction aimed to raise awareness and take a stand against the alarming issue of drug trafficking from Pakistan, which is severely impacting the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.

Chairman Ashok Sharma addressed the attendees, emphatically stating that drugs are one of the most dangerous weapons capable of annihilating communities and entire nations by preying on the youth. “It’s high time Pakistan mends its ways and ceases its support for drug traffickers who threaten our borders and our future. The Indian government must take this grave issue seriously and engage with Pakistan to halt this menace,” he urged, calling for action at international forums to hold Pakistan accountable.

Highlighting the urgent need for safety measures, Mr. Sharma demanded that the Government of India provide secure bunkers for the border residents to ensure their safety during cross-border firing incidents. He also advocated for Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for farmers in border areas, seeking to offer them some form of economic respite amidst ongoing turmoil.

Dr. Kuldeep Sharma, Chief Spokesperson of JBM, echoed the sentiments of urgency, warning parents about the rampant drug abuse that could ensnare their children. “We must come together to combat this menace before it envelops our youth entirely. Right now, our children may seem safe, but if we do not act decisively, the threat of drug abuse will sink its claws into their futures,” he cautioned passionately.

Secretary General Ch. Gharu Ram, ex-minister, and Vice Chairman Satish Poonchi stressed the need for the government to dismantle the network of drug-peddlers operating in J&K and distributing drugs among the local youth. They emphasized that the administration must take a hard stance against those encouraging drug trafficking in Jammu.

Executive member Mr. KYS Manhas, former Principal District & Sessions Judge (Retd.), also took the stage. They called for the reinstatement of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir as a catalyst for addressing numerous local issues, including rising drug trafficking and crime rates. “Granting statehood to Jammu and Kashmir will empower local governance structures necessary to effectively combat these challenges,” they asserted.

JBM Vice Chairman Advocate Usman Salaria asked the government to come up with a particular policy to contain the drug-menace in the Jammu & Kashmir as it is posing serious threat to the society and nation. He further said that drug-addicted youth would be liabilities to the society instead of assets.

Among the attendees were community leaders and citizens, all united in their fight for a drug-free future for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. The rally concluded with a firm resolution to continue advocating for necessary reforms and protective measures, ensuring that future generations can thrive in a safe and healthy environment free from the grips of drug abuse.  As the community stands strong, the message is clear: together, they will forge a path to a brighter and healthier future, free from the scourge of drugs.

Others who spoke on the occasion included Ch Gharu Ram ex-minister,  S. Kamalpreet Singh, Kuldeep Raj Sharma ex-sarpanch, Ashwani Sharma, Pawan Singh Manhas and others.