Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, June 27:
On Tuesday, Ukhrul town observed the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking under the vision of a drug-free India. The event, marked by a public rally, highlighted the global commitment to combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking, aligning with the World Drug Day 2024 theme: “The evidence is clear: invest in prevention.”
United Effort in Ukhrul
The rally was organized by the Ukhrul District Police and saw participation from District Level Officials (DLOs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and people from diverse walks of life. The rally commenced at the Ukhrul Court complex and converged at the Mini Secretariat, Ukhrul, with participants marching under the slogan, “Say No to Drugs: Say Yes to Life.”
Ringthing Hongchui, Additional Superintendent of Police (Addl. SP) of Ukhrul, delivered a welcome speech emphasizing the importance of evidence-based approaches to drug policies. He stated, “The theme teaches every country the importance of understanding that effective drug policies need to be grounded in science, research, compassion, and full respect for human rights.”
The Rising Tide of Drug Abuse
In his address, Ringtone Hongchui highlighted the serious implications of drug abuse on communities and values. “Drug abuse imperils our communities and undermines our values. We must stand firm, crafting robust strategies that weave together prevention, treatment, and enforcement measures,” he said. He further emphasized the need to tackle the root causes of drug abuse through a multifaceted approach to safeguard the future and reclaim streets from the clutches of addiction.
Importance of Prevention
The rally focused on raising awareness about the harms of drug use and advocating for investment in prevention efforts. Hongchui stressed the importance of early intervention and community engagement in combating drug abuse. “We must empower, equip, and engage communities and empower youth to prevent drug abuse and illicit trafficking,” he added.
The United Nations General Assembly first decided to observe the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on December 7, 1987. This day aims to encourage action and cooperation to achieve a society free of drug abuse.
Voices of Concern
Before the rally started, a short program was held at the Ukhrul Court complex. Dr. Yurthingla Luokham, District AIDS Control Department (DACD) Ukhrul, and Dinringam Kamei, Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Ukhrul, delivered speeches addressing the rising challenge of drug abuse. Dr. Yurthingla noted, “The rising tide of drug abuse poses an unprecedented challenge to our society, fueled by insidious trafficking networks and influenced by modern trends. It imperils our communities and undermines our values. We must stand firm, crafting robust strategies that weave together prevention, treatment, and enforcement measures.”
A Unified Pledge
The program included a public pledge led by H. Chiphang, MPS, Deputy Superintendent of Police (Dy. SP) Ukhrul, where the assembled crowd committed to combating drug abuse and promoting healthy, drug-free lives.
Call to Action
The rally and speeches in Ukhrul underscored the need for a united effort to combat drug abuse. The emphasis on science, compassion, and solidarity as guiding principles highlights a commitment to evidence-based solutions. “Through collective action and a commitment to evidence-based solutions, we can create a world where individuals are empowered to lead healthy, fulfilling lives,” Ringthing Hongchui concluded.
The Need for Holistic Approaches:
The rally in Ukhrul reflects the broader need for holistic approaches in tackling drug abuse. Effective drug policies require an integration of various strategies including prevention, education, treatment, and law enforcement. The rally participants called for investing in prevention, highlighting that early intervention can significantly reduce the impact of drug abuse on individuals and communities.
Community Involvement
Community involvement is crucial in the fight against drug abuse. The participation of CSOs, DLOs, and local residents in the rally demonstrates the power of collective action. By engaging different sectors of society, the movement against drug abuse can gain the necessary momentum to bring about meaningful change.
Empowering the Youth
Empowering the youth is a key component of drug prevention. The rally’s focus on youth empowerment aims to equip young people with the knowledge and skills to resist drug use. Education and awareness programs targeted at youth can play a significant role in reducing the incidence of drug abuse.
Policy and Legislative Support
The rally also called for stronger policy and legislative support to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Effective laws and regulations, coupled with robust enforcement, are essential in curbing the spread of drugs. Policymakers need to ensure that drug policies are informed by scientific research and human rights considerations.
The Role of Compassion and Human Rights:
Compassion and respect for human rights are fundamental in addressing drug abuse. Policies that criminalize drug users often exacerbate the problem, leading to stigmatization and marginalization. Instead, a compassionate approach that provides support and treatment can help individuals recover and reintegrate into society.
A Path Forward:
The rally held in Ukhrul town is a testament to the community’s commitment to a drug-free future. By observing the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Ukhrul joins the global effort to address this critical issue. The focus on prevention, community engagement, youth empowerment, and compassionate policies provides a comprehensive framework for combating drug abuse.
The rally’s message is clear: to achieve a drug-free India, we must invest in prevention and adopt a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of drug abuse. By working together, we can create a society where individuals are empowered to lead healthy, fulfilling lives, free from the scourge of drugs.
