MP Shreyas Patel Sounds Alarm on Youth Drug Epidemic in Hassan
In a powerful address at a major anti-narcotics event in Hassan, Member of Parliament Shreyas Patel voiced profound distress over the alarming trend of school and college students destroying their futures through the use of various narcotics, including marijuana and other dangerous drugs. The rally, which also promoted organ donation, was held at the district hockey field and organized in collaboration with Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, the Karnataka Disha Bodh Foundation, and the Narcotics Control Bureau.
Collective Responsibility for a Drug-Free Society
Patel emphasized that it is the fundamental responsibility of society to cultivate a healthy and safe environment for the younger generation, ultimately striving to establish a completely drug-free society. He highlighted a particularly troubling concern: children as young as 10 years old are increasingly falling victim to drug addiction, presenting a severe and growing challenge for communities across the region.
"Life only gains true meaning when we utilize our God-given strength for the betterment of society," Patel stated, urging all citizens to unite in the mission for a drug-free Karnataka. He called for a concerted effort from parents, educators, and community leaders to intervene and guide the youth away from substance abuse.
Political and Community Leaders Rally for Action
Echoing these sentiments, MLA HP Swaroop challenged the youth to take a leading role in eradicating drugs from Hassan. He stressed the necessity for full cooperation from all sectors to rigorously prevent the sale and consumption of narcotics within the district. "The fight against drugs requires vigilance and commitment from every individual," Swaroop asserted.
Deputy Commissioner KS Lathakumari delivered a stark warning, linking national security to public health. She declared that India's greatness is undermined by addiction, stating, "Enemies do not need to wage conventional warfare to weaken our nation; the widespread proliferation of drug addiction is sufficient to cause immense harm." Lathakumari appealed to every family to take a solemn pledge to remain drug-free, framing it as a patriotic duty.
Spiritual and Health Perspectives on the Crisis
Adding a spiritual dimension to the discourse, Halebidu Pushpagiri pontiff Somasekhara Shivacharya Swami drew a parallel between individual and national well-being. He emphasized that the health of the nation is intrinsically connected to the health of its citizens. "Each person must pledge to safeguard not only their own health but also contribute to the health of others, creating a resilient society," Swami advised.
The event saw significant participation from key figures, including Disha Bodh Foundation director Dhruvakumar and Assistant Superintendent of Police Srinidhi, underscoring a multi-faceted approach involving health, law enforcement, and community outreach. The campaigns inaugurated—Nasha Mukt Bharat, Nasha Mukt Karnataka, and Nasha Mukt Campus—aim to create widespread awareness and actionable strategies against drug abuse, targeting educational institutions and the broader public.
This rally marks a critical step in mobilizing Hassan and Karnataka against the scourge of narcotics, with leaders unanimously calling for proactive measures to protect the youth and secure a healthier future for all.
