GANGTOK: A substantial public awareness campaign aimed at combating substance abuse was launched in the Shyari constituency on Sunday with a rally starting from Chandmari and proceeding to Rongneck, led by the local MLA, Tenzing N. Lamtha. The campaign, titled ‘Aama Ko Aasu Pusnay Lathi’, is part of the broader ‘Nasha Mukt Sikkim’ initiative. It honors mothers, who often endure the most suffering when their children fall prey to substance abuse.
Speaking to the crowd, MLA Lamtha expressed pride in launching this campaign on May 11, coinciding with International Mother’s Day. “On this special day, I extend heartfelt Mother’s Day wishes to mothers across the State and around the globe. It is fitting that we initiate this noble cause today,” he remarked.
The MLA highlighted the gravity of the issue and reiterated the constituency’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on drug abuse. “Our goal is to shield children, youth, families, and the state from this escalating menace. We must unite as a community to fight this social evil,” he urged.
Under the guidance of Chief Minister P.S. Golay, the state-wide ‘Sarathi’ campaign has proven essential in raising awareness about drug abuse and suicide prevention. “To enhance this mission, we are launching a more extensive awareness drive in our constituency, involving everyone from each village and ward,” Lamtha added.
This campaign involves creating grassroots teams in every Gram Panchayat Unit. These teams will identify drug users, take legal action against peddlers, and provide treatment and counseling for addicts. “We aim to decentralize the fight against drug abuse and aspire to make our state drug-free,” Lamtha stated.
He also issued a stern warning to anyone involved in the trade of illicit substances: “Cease your activities immediately, or face severe repercussions, including the cancellation of trade licenses and disconnection of utilities,” he cautioned.
“The drug peddlers have no right to destroy the lives of our youth. Their conduct affects not just the users but their families and society as a whole,” Lamtha asserted. He expressed gratitude to the local community for their overwhelming support, thanking councillors, zilla panchayat members, administration officials, police, clubs, self-help groups, social organizations, and every citizen present at the event. “Together, we can eradicate this social evil,” he affirmed.
Lamtha confirmed that the rally was merely the beginning. “We will conduct a door-to-door campaign across the constituency in phases. This initiative, backed by our Chief Minister, is a personal pledge to end drug abuse,” he declared.
He encouraged drug users to step forward, emphasizing that addiction is a disease that requires treatment and counseling. “We are here to support and rehabilitate you. Let us assist you in returning to your families and contributing positively to society,” he urged.
The MLA also appealed to peddlers to abandon the illegal trade and instead explore various government schemes for sustainable livelihoods. “We cannot allow our mothers to cry over drug abuse any longer,” he concluded, calling on all citizens to unite in this critical battle.
Prior to the event, Sadar Police Station SHO DP Limboo informed locals about the NDPS Act and SADA, emphasizing the legal consequences associated with drug peddling and usage. Additional Director of Social Welfare Mahesh Sharma discussed various departmental initiatives aimed at tackling substance abuse.
KC Nima, Managing Director of Freedom Rehab Centre, shared a personal story highlighting the importance of support in overcoming addiction. “Had I received help sooner, I would not have brought so much pain to my mother, family, and society,” he reflected.
The event also included remarks from councillor Chungkela Lepcha of Chandmari Ward and featured the presence of Padma Shri awardee Droupadi Ghemiray, Tathangchen councillor Pema Lhamu Lamtha, social worker Usha Lachungpa, panchayat presidents, BDO Nandok, and representatives from various clubs and social organizations within the Shyari constituency.
Original Source: https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/shyari-residents-gear-up-to-combat-drug-abuse
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