A
thought-provoking awareness program on drug abuse and newly enacted criminal
laws was successfully conducted at Govt. Higher Secondary School Akingam
in collaboration with JK Police Station Achabal. The event aimed to
sensitize students and the general public about the rising threat of drug abuse
and the significance of the recent legal reforms introduced in India.
The
program began with a warm welcome address by the Principal, Mr. Tariq Ahmad
Shah, who highlighted the importance of such initiatives in guiding the
youth toward a healthier and law-abiding future. This was followed by a Tilawat
from the Holy Quran and a Naat in praise of Prophet Muhammad (SAW),
creating a spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
Mr.
Aabid Murtaza, Panchayat Secretary Achabal, delivered
a detailed session on the three newly introduced criminal laws — Bharatiya
Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya
Sakshya Adhiniyam. He explained their citizen-friendly features, such as
online FIR filing, Zero FIR, use of forensic evidence, digital and
technological integration in criminal investigation, and faster delivery of
justice. He underlined how these reforms aim to modernize India's criminal
justice system and make it more responsive to common people.
Following
this, Mr. Irfan Ahmad Badam, Lecturer in Zoology, delivered a
comprehensive awareness talk on drug abuse. He explained the difference between
drug abuse and addiction, the biological and psychological effects of drugs on
the brain, memory, heart, immune system, liver, and kidneys, and emphasized the
long-term impact on students' mental and physical health. He also spoke about
preventive measures, rehabilitation, and the ways to come out of addiction,
urging students to stay aware and make informed choices.
The
importance of legal awareness was further emphasized by Mr. Rouf Ahmad Shah,
Tehsil Social Welfare Officer, who discussed the need for the new criminal laws
in the current social context and their role in ensuring safety, justice, and
accountability.
Adding
a cultural touch, students presented a melodious Kashmiri song, which
received warm applause from the audience.
The
Chief Guest of the event, SDPO Achabal Mr. Basharat Hussain, delivered a
motivational speech focusing on youth empowerment. He thanked the school
authorities and organizers for such a relevant initiative. He urged students to
take a proactive role in nation-building and making Kashmir a real paradise.
He shared his three-pronged vision for the students of Acabal Jurisdiction in
general and students HSS Akingan in
particular: To eradicate drug menace from Achabal and its
jurisdiction,To develop sports culture and physical fitness, and To enhance
academic excellence and learning outcomes.
He also appealed to teachers to channel the talents of students into productive
paths, so they become exemplary citizens of society.
Two
bright students of Class 12th, Saniya Farooq and Arby Ashraf,
also spoke during the program. Saniya called drug abuse a silent killer,
highlighting the role of teachers and parents in early detection and guidance.
Arby emphasized the need to go beyond warnings, discussing the mental and
academic consequences of drug abuse, and underscored the power of education as
a transformative tool.
Importantly,
the program also witnessed the active participation of SMDC (School
Management and Development Committee) members and several civil society
representatives, who appreciated the school and police department for
organizing such a timely and informative event.
The
event concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Senior Lecturer
Mr. Mohd Abass Rather, who thanked all dignitaries, guests, students, and
especially the organizers for making the event a success.
