Do Not Fall Prey to Drugs, SP Bindumani Urges Students
Stressing that students have a vital role to play in preventing drug addiction, District Superintendent of Police R.N. Bindumani said that the menace of drug abuse can be eradicated from society only if the younger generation becomes aware of its harmful consequences.
She was speaking after inaugurating the Drug Free Day celebration programme, organised on the occasion of Dr. Mahant Shivayogi’s birth anniversary at the Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa College auditorium on Saturday. The programme was jointly organised by the State Liquor Control Board, District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, District Police, Department of Information and Public Relations, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Department of Medical Education, and Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa College.
Addressing the students, SP Bindumani urged the youth to build a bright future without falling prey to drugs such as heroin, ganja and other intoxicating substances. He emphasised the importance of focusing on education and staying away from all forms of addiction.
She said that young people should never become victims of drug abuse or any other harmful addiction, as it not only destroys their future but also brings disrepute to society. Students should therefore concentrate on shaping their lives in a positive direction.
The Superintendent of Police said that students must understand for themselves how drug abuse destroys a person’s life physically, mentally and socially.
She noted that the Karnataka Government and the Police Department have launched the youth-friendly awareness campaign, “Drugs Beda Bro,” to educate young people about the dangers of drug abuse. He added that Karnataka is at the forefront in preventing drug abuse and taking stringent action against drug peddlers.
Drug abuse, he said, is not a symbol of innovation or modernity but a serious social evil that completely destroys a person’s health, future and life. He appealed to the youth not to become slaves to drugs out of temporary pleasure or curiosity.
SP Bindumani said that information regarding drug peddlers can be shared through the KSP App, the Drugs Free Karnataka App, or by contacting the police emergency helpline. He assured the public that the identity of informants would be kept strictly confidential.
She further stated that the District Police Department is committed to making Kodagu a drug-free district and appealed to students to extend their full cooperation in achieving this objective.
Students should also make effective use of social media to spread awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, She said, adding that such efforts would contribute towards building a healthy and responsible society.
Dr. Rupesh Gopal, Head of the Department of Psychiatry at Kodagu Institute of Medical Sciences, said that young people and students should stay away from alcohol and drugs, as leading a disciplined and healthy life contributes to the overall development of the nation and improves the financial well-being of families.
He pointed out that drug addiction destroys not only the health of an individual but also the peace and stability of the entire family, leading to financial hardship, mental stress and family conflicts.
Dr. Gopal further observed that excessive drug consumption impairs a person’s judgement and is a major factor contributing to sexual violence and harassment. He advised students to encourage anyone in their family or neighbourhood struggling with addiction to seek treatment at the Psychiatry Department of the District Hospital.
He informed that psychiatrists are available every day in Room No. 11 of the District Hospital and that immediate treatment facilities are available. He also noted that, after family-related issues and illness, drug addiction remains one of the leading causes of suicide in India, as it destroys mental stability and drives individuals towards extreme decisions. He urged students to spread awareness and contribute towards building a drug-free and stronger nation.
Principal of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa College, Major Dr. B. Raghav, said that students should take the lead in building a healthy society by leading disciplined lives free from addictions and focusing on quality education.
He described college life as the most important turning point in a person’s life, where decisions made during this period shape one’s future. Therefore, choosing the right friends during college is extremely important.
“The company we keep influences our lives. Wrong friendships can damage our reputation and future, while good friends inspire us to become responsible citizens,” he said, urging students to make wise choices while selecting friends.
Referring to Dr. Mahant Shivayogi, he said the saint had dedicated his life to building an addiction-free society and eradicating social evils. Students, he added, should follow his ideals by leading disciplined lives, thereby inspiring not only themselves but also the youth in their neighbourhoods to become responsible and educated citizens.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Suraj said that various forms of drugs are having a dangerous impact on today’s youth, affecting them physically, mentally and socially. He urged young people to remain vigilant and report information about drug peddlers through the police department’s mobile applications, assuring that the identities of informants would remain confidential under all circumstances.
Assistant Director of the Department of Information and Public Relations, Chinnaswamy, administered the Drug Free Day pledge, wherein participants resolved never to consume or handle drugs throughout their lives. They also pledged to work together with their families, friends and teachers to eradicate the menace of drug abuse and contribute towards building a drug-free society.
Medical officers and students of the Department of Psychiatry presented a short play highlighting the harmful effects of drug addiction.
Assistant Professor Renushree of the Department of Economics, lecturers Prof. Sridhar Hegde, Dr. Gayathri A.N., Dr. Talwar D.H., Dr. Shailashree, K.M. Poonachha, Alok, members of the faculty, students and medical officers of the Psychiatry Department were present.
Students Lochana narrated a song, while Swapna, Chondamma and Likhita rendered patriotic songs. Information Officer Chinnaswamy welcomed the gathering and proposed the vote of thanks.
