United Against Drugs: DLSA Srinagar organizes comprehensive awareness programme

SRINAGAR : In continuation of its efforts to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar, organized a series of awareness initiatives to mark the extended commemoration of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed globally on 26th June.
As part of the initiative, the Authority conducted various outreach activities, raising awareness among the public about the devastating effects of drug addiction, legal implications of trafficking, and the importance of community-based prevention strategies.
In this connection, DLSA Srinagar, in collaboration with the Child Welfare Committee, Srinagar, and PRAYAS Juvenile Aid centre Society (NGO), organized a comprehensive awareness programme on Saturday at HMT Road, Shalteng (PRAYAS).
The programme was conducted under the chairmanship of Tasleem Arief, Principal District and Sessions Judge, Srinagar, and closely monitored by Sajad Ur Rehman, Sub-Judge/Secretary, DLSA Srinagar.
Khair Ul Nisa, Chairperson, Child Welfare Committee, Srinagar, delivered an insightful address to the participants, particularly focusing on the vulnerability of children and adolescents in the face of increasing substance abuse. She emphasized that children exposed to drug environments are not only at a higher risk of addiction but also of neglect, abuse, and conflict with the law.
Highlighting the crucial role of early identification and intervention, she called for coordinated efforts between legal authorities, educational institutions, families, and civil society to safeguard the future of children. She also underlined the statutory duties of the Child Welfare Committee in providing care, protection, and rehabilitation to children in need and at risk due to drug-related issues.
Advocate Suhaila, Panel Lawyer with DLSA Srinagar, served as the key resource person for the programme. She provided a comprehensive overview of the legal framework surrounding drug abuse and trafficking, including the provisions of the NDPS Act, Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, and the role of Legal Services Authorities in ensuring access to justice for affected individuals.
She elaborated on the legal rights and entitlements of children in need of care and protection, as well as children in conflict with the law, particularly those affected by drug-related circumstances. Advocate Suhaila also emphasized the importance of spreading legal literacy at the grassroots level and encouraged the participants to become ambassadors of awareness within their communities.
The event concluded with an anti-drug pledge, where all participants, including children, volunteers, and stakeholders, solemnly committed themselves to fight against drug abuse, spread awareness, and support individuals in need. The pledge symbolized collective determination and solidarity in building a drug-free, safe, and healthy society.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from officials, Legal Aid Defense Counsels, officers/officials from Child Welfare Committee, Officials of PRAYAS Juvenile Aid centre Society (NGO), and Para Legal Volunteers of DLSA Srinagar, all of whom pledged to work together to curb the rising tide of drug abuse and protect the rights and well-being of children and youth.