Ganderbal, Dec 03: Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, Central Kashmir, Rajeev Pandey on Wednesday said that specially-abled persons should not be segregated from mainstream education and society, emphasising the need for inclusivity to ensure their overall development.
Speaking during a World Disability Day event in Ganderbal, DIG Pandey said the term “disabled” should be avoided and that “specially-abled” individuals deserve equal opportunities and participation.
“If we create separate schools for them, that in itself becomes discrimination. It is better that they study and grow with other children and are accepted as they are,” he said.
DIG Pandey added that inclusive cultural and educational activities play a crucial role in helping specially-abled persons lead a normal life.
He also addressed the growing drug menace in Kashmir, stating that the Jammu and Kashmir Police have intensified its campaign under the NDPS Act to curb drug peddling and consumption. “If you look at the statistics, there has been a sharp rise in NDPS cases across J&K. There is no leniency and no vacancy in action,” the DIG said.
The police officer said hotspots linked to drug trafficking have been identified and focused operations are underway to break supply networks.
He added that both coercive action and corrective rehabilitation measures are being implemented simultaneously.
“We are running de-addiction centres at the range level. Police teams are carrying out awareness campaigns in schools, colleges and youth organisations,” DIG Pandey said, urging media outlets to amplify anti-drug messaging and help provide a healthier environment for young people—(KNO)
