The Coalition Against Drugs and Alcohol (CADA) has raised questions over the effectiveness of the Manipur Government’s measures to combat drug abuse and expressed concern over the growing availability of alcohol in the state.
CADA Secretary General Takhellambam Geetchandra Meitei made the remarks during a programme held at the organisation’s office at Pureiromba Khongnang Makhong, Imphal, Today in connection with its 20th foundation day.
The programme began with a two-minute silence to pay tribute to those who had lost their lives due to drug and alcohol abuse and to remember individuals who had contributed to the activities of CADA.
All Manipur Women’s Social Reformation and Development Samaj (Nupi Samaj) president Thokchom Ongbi Ramani, CADA president Hijam Priyokumar and Just and Fair Delimitation (JFD) Finance Secretary Sunil Karam attended the programme, among others.
Addressing the gathering, Geetchandra said CADA had undertaken numerous awareness and anti-drug campaigns over the years, but substance abuse continued to claim lives and pose a serious challenge to society.
He observed that the continued access to intoxicating substances, including among young people, indicated the need to examine the effectiveness of the existing measures against drug abuse.
On the issue of alcohol, Geetchandra questioned the rationale behind the earlier decision of the state government to permit the sale and consumption of alcohol. He said the policy had been justified on the grounds that it would create employment and generate other economic benefits.
However, he questioned whether the expected employment opportunities had materialised, stating that the wider availability of alcohol had also raised concerns over its social impact.
He further alleged that alcohol transported into the state from outside was contributing to social problems, particularly affecting young people and families.
Geetchandra stressed that sustained efforts were required to address both drug and alcohol abuse and said awareness campaigns alone would not be sufficient if intoxicating substances continued to remain readily accessible.
He urged the government to adopt stronger measures to prevent substance abuse and safeguard the younger generation.
The foundation day programme was attended by CADA members and representatives of civil society organisations.