Opinion | Let’s Fight Drugs! Kashmir Writers Association Hosted awareness event in Anantnag

We must cultivate a culture of vigilance and compassion, where no one suffers in silence and every individual is empowered to seek help without fear of stigma or judgment.

In a concerted effort to address the alarming rise of drug abuse in Kashmir, the Kashmir Writers’ Association recently hosted a pivotal awareness event at the Shereen Conference Hall in Anantnag. This gathering brought together a diverse array of stakeholders—from community leaders to intellectuals and concerned citizens—to confront the multifaceted challenges posed by substance abuse and to rally collective action against this pressing issue. The event was marked by insightful speeches and presentations that illuminated various dimensions of the problem.
Hafiz Tariq, a distinguished speaker known for his scholarly insights, delivered a compelling address on the moral and ethical implications of drug abuse within an Islamic framework. He emphasized Islam’s unequivocal stance against substances that harm individuals and society, resonating deeply with attendees and highlighting the importance of values-driven approaches in combating addiction.
Mariya Noor, District Head of the Kashmir Writers’ Association, delivered a stirring keynote address, reaffirming the association’s commitment to combating drug abuse through heightened awareness and community mobilization efforts. She underscored the pivotal roles that religious scholars, educators, intellectuals, and civil society must play in tackling this critical issue. Mariya passionately called for unity across all segments of society, urging proactive engagement in prevention and rehabilitation initiatives. My own contribution to the event included a comprehensive Power Point presentation that meticulously outlined the intricate facets of drug abuse—from its devastating health impacts to its far-reaching socio-economic repercussions. Through data-driven insights, I underscored the urgency for decisive measures to curb the rising trend of addiction among Kashmiri youth. Tanveer Ahmad Shah, a respected voice in society , provided expert insights into the psychological and societal toll of drug abuse. He stressed the necessity of holistic approaches that combine medical intervention with robust community support systems.Shah’s address underscored the pivotal roles of healthcare professionals and community leaders in offering timely interventions and steadfast support to individuals battling addiction.

Throughout the event, Mohammad Alim Bhat played a pivotal role as host, ensuring the smooth flow of discussions and fostering a conducive environment for productive dialogue among participants. Speakers consistently emphasized the imperative for a united societal effort against drug abuse. They called upon religious scholars to provide ethical guidance, educators to mentor and educate youth, intellectuals to advocate for policy reforms, and civil society to actively support rehabilitation endeavours. The overarching message was clear and resounding: only through collaborative and concerted efforts can Kashmir surmount the scourge of drug addiction and safeguard the well-being of future generations. The initiative by the Kashmir Writers’ Association not only facilitated informed discourse but also galvanized attendees to shoulder their responsibilities and actively contribute to viable solutions. As a social worker deeply invested in combating drug abuse, I urge fellow citizens to join hands in this critical endeavour. We must cultivate a culture of vigilance and compassion, where no one suffers in silence and every individual is empowered to seek help without fear of stigma or judgment. By fostering open dialogue, raising awareness, and supporting rehabilitation efforts, we can collectively turn the tide against drug abuse in Kashmir.
For those interested in supporting or learning more about our initiatives, please feel free to reach out to me at mnoorkashmir@gmail.com. Together, let us build a resilient community where the promise of a drug-free future becomes a reality for all.