DIMAPUR, JULY 13 (MExN): There is growing incidences of drug abuse among school children under the age of 18 years in Peren district.
Addressing a consultative meeting on July 13 at Jalukie, Deputy Commissioner, Vineet Kumar informed that the rising cases of drug abuse are primarily affecting school children in the fifth and sixth grades.
To fight this escalating drug war, the DC urged the stakeholders to focus their time and efforts on individuals within the society and take a public health approach to address the issue.
He further encouraged parents and community leaders to actively engage with children, providing guidance and supervision to fulfill their responsibility in curbing drug abuse.
The DC also stressed on the importance of being good role models in the fight against drug abuse, highlighting the potential negative effects it can have on every aspect of society, including physical and mental health, employment, and overall well-being.
The consultative meeting was convened by the Additional Deputy Commissioner Jalukie, TL Kiusumong Tikhir over concerns of escalating cases of drug and alcohol abuse in Jalukie sub-division under Peren district.
According to a DIPR report, the meeting aimed to engage civil society leaders and stakeholders in finding effective measures to tackle this menace.
ADC Tikhir emphasized on active participation of civil society in eradicating the rising cases of drug abuse throughout the sub-division. He called on all stakeholders to work together and contribute to the collective efforts against this issue.
The consultation meeting provided a platform for open discussions, strategizing, and collaborative planning among the attendees, fostering a unified approach to combat drug abuse in Jalukie sub-division.
DC issues notification on legal restrictions
Meanwhile, DC Peren, in response to the increasing cases of substance abuse, particularly among children under the age of 18, issued a notification in the Peren district.
Citing Section 77 of the Juvenile Justice Act 2015, the order declares it an offense to provide any intoxicating liquor, narcotic drug, tobacco product, or psychotropic substance to children, unless authorized by a qualified medical practitioner.
Under the directive, any shop, institution, or individual found selling or distributing restricted substances to minors will face legal consequences as prescribed by the law. Additionally, their trade license may be revoked, the notification upheld.
DC, Vineet Kumar emphasized the importance of complying with these regulations to safeguard the well-being of the younger population.
In line with these measures, the DC has instructed all tobacco-selling establishments to prominently display a legible notice stating the prohibition of selling tobacco products to individuals under the age of 18. This requirement aims to raise awareness and ensure compliance with the legal restrictions in place.
The district administration, through this initiative, aims to curb the rising trend of substance abuse among minors and protect their health and future. It serves as a reminder to all stakeholders to fulfill their responsibilities in upholding the law and prioritizing the well-being of the youth, the notification stated.
