Drug peddling non-bailable offence likely

Tribune News Service
Solan, October 21

In a bid to curb proliferating drug trade in the state Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur today said the government was contemplating to make drug peddling a non-bailable offence.

He said the rising drug abuse among the youth was a matter of concern and in a bid to sensitise them about its ill-effects, a chapter on drug abuse would be introduced in the syllabus of class VIII to XII.

Addressing an anti-drug rally at Thodo Ground here the Chief Minister said the youth must be motivated to say “no to drugs and yes to life”.

He said the state government was serious about addressing the menace. Apart from coordinating with the neighbouring states, the government was also contemplating framing stringent laws to punish those involved in this nefarious trade.

While urging the parents to keep an eye on the behaviour of their children, the Chief Minister said the role of the parents and teachers was equally significant in curbing this abuse. He said at times the parents ignore the early symptoms and situation deteriorates when they finally are apprised of the facts. He said the use of synthetic drugs was even more dangerous and alarming.

The Chief Minister also administered an oath to the students to say no to drugs and help check this menace.

Thakur also paid obeisance at Maharishi Balmiki temple. Hundreds of students from various educational institutions as well as youth participated in the rally.

The CM also presided over a cultural programme organised by the Mandyal Sabha later in the day. While addressing the audience he said although Himachali cap signified the Pahari culture and pride some vested interests tried to make political capital from the colour of the cap. He said he was opposed to this trend and wore cap of any colour.

He also inaugurated a women police station at old Deputy Commissioner Office on the Mall Road here. An examination hall of Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni by also inaugurated by the CM. He also laid the foundation stone of Major Dhyan Chand Sports Stadium on the university campus.

Vidhan Sabha Speaker Rajiv Bindal, Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Rajiv Saizal and member of Parliament Virender Kashyap were also present on the occasion.