Civil society members, religious clerics, students attend in large numbers
Pledge, cultural outreach, signature drive mark impactful program
Srinagar, May 03: As part of strong and unified show of public resolve, thousands of people on Sunday participated in a mega anti-drug Padyatra led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in Srinagar, with the campaign taking the shape of “Jan Andolan (mass movement)” across the Valley.
According to the details available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) people from all walks of life, including civil society members, religious clerics, students, traders, youth volunteers, sportsmen and government officials joined the march in large numbers, reflecting a shared determination to fight the growing drug menace.
“This is not just a government programme anymore and it has become a people’s responsibility. We must stand together to save our youth,” said Gulzar Ahmad.
The event began at TRC Football Stadium with the arrival of the Lieutenant Governor. The proceedings opened with the National Song and National Anthem, followed by a welcome address by the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, who highlighted the importance of collective action in tackling drug abuse.
An anti-drug awareness video was screened, showcasing the serious social, psychological and economic consequences of substance abuse. Moreover, this was followed by a cultural programme in which artists depicted the harmful impact of drugs on individuals and families, drawing strong engagement from the audience.
The Lieutenant Governor then released balloons as a symbolic gesture, representing hope and a collective commitment towards building a drug-free society.
A highlight of the programme was the anti-drug pledge. “Thousands of participants raised their hands and took a pledge to work actively towards eradicating drug abuse from the society.”
Addressing the gathering, LG Sinha, according to KNO, reiterated the administration’s zero-tolerance policy against narcotics, stressing that strict action against drug traffickers is being complemented by widespread awareness efforts. He stressed that the involvement of youth, civil society and religious leaders is crucial for long-term success.
A religious cleric present at the event said, “We will take this message to mosques and communities. This is our duty to protect families from this menace.”
Following the formal programme, the Lieutenant Governor flagged off the Padyatra towards Clock Tower Srinagar.
The march covered a distance of approximately 1.7 kilometres, moving from TRC Stadium along Residency Road towards Lal Chowk. Participants carried placards, raised slogans and actively engaged with the public to spread awareness against drug abuse.
Students formed a vibrant segment of the rally. “We are marching for our future. Drugs are destroying lives, and we want to be part of the solution,” said Tufail Ahmad a student participant.
The padyatra reached Polo View Market, where a skit performance was organised to creatively highlight the dangers of addiction and the importance of timely intervention. The performance drew attention from bystanders and further amplified the campaign message.
The march then proceeded towards Lal Chowk, where it culminated in a signature campaign. A large number of participants and local residents signed in support of the anti-drug initiative, marking a strong public endorsement.
Meanwhile, officials said elaborate and multi-layered security arrangements were put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of the event. Police and paramilitary forces were deployed across the route, with anti-sabotage checks, area domination and enhanced surveillance measures.
Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and emergency response units were strategically stationed to deal with any contingency.
Health services remained on high alert, with ambulances, mobile medical units and healthcare personnel deployed at regular intervals. Fire and emergency services, along with disaster response teams, were also kept on standby throughout the programme.
The city, particularly areas around Lal Chowk and adjoining routes, wore a festive-like look, with banners, hoardings and public messaging prominently displayed.
As already reported by KNO, extensive preparations, public mobilisation and heightened security arrangements were put in place to make event a major success. (KNO)
