Jammu, Feb 6, KNT: Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakina Itoo on Thursday refuted allegations of widespread drug abuse among school students, stating that strict monitoring mechanisms, including the installation of CCTV cameras in schools and medical shops, were already in place.
Responding in the Legislative Assembly, the minister said claims suggesting rampant drug use within schools were not supported by available evidence. She said CCTV surveillance systems had been installed to closely monitor activities and prevent any misuse of narcotic or psychotropic substances, particularly in and around educational institutions.
At the same time, Sakina Itoo acknowledged that the drug menace was spreading in parts of Jammu and Kashmir and described it as a serious social challenge requiring a coordinated response. She said the government was actively working with multiple departments, including health, education and social welfare, alongside non governmental organisations and law enforcement agencies, to identify the sources of narcotics and dismantle supply networks.
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The minister stressed that government action alone would not be sufficient to address the problem. She said citizens, parents and community leaders must play an active role in guiding young people away from substance abuse and towards constructive activities.
Highlighting preventive measures, Sakina Itoo said promoting sports, cultural engagement and positive social involvement was essential to strengthen resistance against drugs among youth. She said such initiatives were crucial to safeguarding the physical and mental wellbeing of the younger generation.
The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to intensifying monitoring, awareness and intervention efforts to curb the drug menace while ensuring that allegations are addressed with facts and evidence. [KNT]
