DLSA Kathua, TLSC Basohli organize awareness event to highlight ill effects of drug abuse, role of law
Jun 26, 2025
KATHUA: To mark the observance of International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the District Legal Services Authority Kathua in collaboration with Tehsil Legal Services Committee Basohli today organised a legal awareness programme at DIET Basohli.
The event was held under the guidance of Chairman DLSA Kathua, Jatinder Singh Jamwal, (Principal District and Sessions Judge Kathua) and was organised by Sub-Judge/Secretary DLSA Kathua, Kamiya Singh Andotra under the aegis of NALSA and JKLSA.
The programme witnessed the participation of various dignitaries including Munsiff/JMIC Basohli Bhanu Bhasin, Tehsildar Basohli Sagar Vishwakarma, SDPO Basohli Suresh Sharma and SHO Basohli/DySP Probationer Geetanjali Gupta. Legal professionals, students, staff and members of civil society also attended the event.
Secretary DLSA Kathua Kamiya Singh Andotra threw light on this year's campaign theme "The evidence is clear: invest in prevention - Break the cycle. Stop organized crime." She said the theme emphasizes the need for coordinated, long-term action to combat drug trafficking and abuse by addressing root causes and strengthening health, education and social systems. She added that the day is a solemn reminder of the far-reaching impact of drug addiction, and a call to action to refine strategies and strengthen collective efforts.
Drawing from her own experience in the justice system, she highlighted the realities of drug addiction cases in court and jail visits. She remarked that many people affected by drug abuse are not hardened criminals, but victims of circumstances, trauma or poor choices. She said the justice system must punish where required, but must also educate, rehabilitate and prevent through special courts, de-addiction programmes and community outreach.
She further said that drug trafficking is a crime that not only endangers public health but also destabilizes society by fueling violence, corruption and insecurity. She stressed the need to address both supply and demand sides of the problem, and to build resilient communities where awareness, education and social support mechanisms are in place to prevent drug use. She called upon parents, educators, healthcare professionals, law enforcement and policy makers to play their part in building a society where every individual has the opportunity for a healthy and dignified life.
She also addressed the youth directly and urged them not to remain silent if they or someone they know is struggling with addiction. She said saying no to drugs is an act of strength and courage and that there is always help and hope available. She added that recovery is possible with access to counselling, treatment, education and job opportunities. She appealed to the youth to be part of the solution by promoting awareness, peer support and pursuing careers in mental health, social work or justice.
Tehsildar Basohli and SDPO Basohli also shared their thoughts and experiences and motivated the youth to stay drug-free and lead a productive life. Legal Aid Defence Counsels Sumit Jasrotia, Akanksha Sharma, Anil Padha and Vikarnt Singh also addressed the gathering as resource persons and spoke about the ill effects of drugs, legal provisions and the importance of collective efforts to create a drug-free society.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Munsiff/JMIC Basohli Bhanu Bhasin. Students and staff of Veer Savarkar Higher Secondary School and members of the general public also participated and took a pledge to stay away from drugs and work towards a healthier, addiction-free society.
