Assam Rallies Against Rising Drug Abuse, Demanding Government Action
A wave of anti-drug awareness rallies swept across Assam on Tuesday, as thousands of students, activists, and community members took to the streets to demand a drug-free state. Organized by the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) and Asom Unnati Sabha, the protests underlined growing concerns over the rising drug abuse problem, its social consequences, and the urgent need for stronger legal and enforcement measures.
In Guwahati, hundreds of students from various schools and universities, armed with banners and chanting slogans, marched through the streets, calling for immediate government intervention. AASU Chief Advisor Samujjal Bhattacharyya, AASU President Utpal Sharma, and several central leaders joined the demonstration, voicing alarm over the rampant drug menace. Sharma lamented the changing social fabric of Assam due to drug abuse, saying, "There was a time when men and women gathered under trees, sharing ethnic snacks and talking about their day. Today, young boys and girls gather under those same trees—not to converse, but to take drugs. We cannot let Assam turn into Punjab."
Sharma also highlighted Assam’s geographical vulnerability as part of the Golden Triangle drug route, where opium cultivation is reportedly on the rise. "Everyone familiar with drug trafficking knows about the Golden Triangle. Assam and the Northeast serve as a transit point for this illicit trade, making us more vulnerable. If we don’t act now, the problem will spiral out of control," he warned. Bhattacharyya echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that authorities must support, not obstruct, their movement. "The police should stand with us in this fight. If they try to stop us from holding these rallies, it would send a terrible message—that they support drug abuse," he said.
Similar demonstrations were held in Biswanath Chariali, where students and activists urged the government to take strong action against drug suppliers and traffickers. Protestors in Biswanath Chariali lamented that drug use is spreading even in villages, which is deeply concerning. "Drug use is spreading even in villages, which is deeply concerning. People must be made aware of the dangers and work together to stop this menace before it destroys our youth," one of the protesters said.
In Jorhat, protesters went a step further, calling for stringent anti-drug laws and the formation of dedicated anti-drug squads. Assam Sena Chief Convener Vijay Shankar Bordoloi criticized the government’s alleged lacklustre approach, saying that sporadic crackdowns were insufficient. "The government cannot wash its hands of responsibility with a couple of drug raids. The entire supply chain must be dismantled. We need a permanent anti-drug squad and stricter laws to ensure that traffickers do not escape justice," he added.
As the Assamese people continue to grapple with the drug menace, it is clear that mobilizing the community is crucial in the fight against drug abuse. By joining forces, the government, civil society, and individuals can work together to create a drug-free Assam.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/we-wont-let-assam-turn-into-punjab-massive-anti-drug-protests-sweep-state-1571515
Category : Assam,Featured
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Publish Date: 2025-03-18 17:54:00
