Jammu, July 04: In a continued effort to deepen community engagement and combat the growing menace of drug abuse, Jammu Police, South Zone convened a Police Community Partnership Group (PCPG) meeting at Bhour Camp Chatha, chaired by SP City South.
The meeting witnessed active participation from local residents, civil society members, youth and senior citizens who raised several specific concerns related to drug abuse, especially among vulnerable youth. Key issues highlighted included the easy availability of illicit tablets and illegal resale of alcohol. Participants also expressed frustration over repeat offenders being granted bail quickly, which weakens the community’s trust in the system. A powerful street play titled “Dastak”, performed by _Inquilabi Natak Manch_, served as a focal point of the program. The play portrayed the devastating impact of drug addiction on families, highlighted the consequences of alcohol abuse, and strongly condemned pop songs that glorify gangster culture and drug use, which have a damaging influence on impressionable minds.
Responding to public concerns, the chairing officer, SP South, delivered a thought-provoking address, stating: “The drug problem is not merely a social evil but a calculated strategy of unconventional warfare designed to destroy the very fabric of our society. Alongside conventional and sub-conventional threats like militancy, drug infiltration is part of a broader effort to destabilize communities from within.”
The officer also appealed to families to remain vigilant and emotionally supportive of their children, emphasizing that strong homes can prevent vulnerable youth from falling prey to drugs. Addressing the issue of repeat offenders and quick bail, the officer clarified that while police act swiftly to arrest and present offenders in court, judicial decisions on bail lie beyond police control. He assured the public that the police would take up the issue through legal channels and recommend denial of bail for repeat drug offenders under stringent provisions of the NDPS Act.
In response to the concern raised by a local resident, regarding the illegal sale of liquor and prescription drugs, a formal letter has been issued to SHO PS Satwari and ICPP Chatha, directing immediate verification and action against such unlawful activities. In view of ongoing SANJY-25, the participants were sensitized about the importance of community vigilance and were encouraged to remain alert to their surroundings.
They were advised to report any suspicious activities, unknown persons, or suspected substances to the nearest police station The event concluded with a reaffirmation of Jammu Police’s commitment to a drug-free society, and a call to all stakeholders to work hand-in-hand in this collective battle against narcotics and moral decay.
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