In a pivotal effort to address the escalating drug abuse crisis in India, the District Legal Services Authority of Karbi Anglong organized a discussion forum today at the Langkung Hub in Indore Stadium, Diphu. The forum, titled “Combating the Narcotic Drug Menace: Legal Framework, Challenges, and the Way Forward,” brought together esteemed legal minds, including Justice Ujjal Bhuyan from the Supreme Court and Justice El Zimira from the Guwahati High Court.
Justice Ujjal Bhuyan opened the discussion by emphasizing the profound impact of drug addiction on individuals, families, and society at large. He articulated that drug use leads to both physical and mental health challenges for users, which in turn can devastate family structures and community cohesion. Citing alarming statistics from the Ministry of Social Justice, he revealed that approximately 90% of street teenagers are grappling with drug addiction. This startling figure underscores the urgent need for comprehensive community engagement and support systems.
During his address, Justice Bhuyan elaborated on the geographical origins of narcotics entering India, highlighting the notorious Golden Triangle region comprising Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos. He also pointed out that Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran are significant contributors to the inflow of these harmful substances. The judge drew attention to the severe drug crisis in Punjab and expressed concern over the rising number of young individuals in Manipur who are succumbing to addiction, particularly through syringe use.
Justice Bhuyan raised a critical point regarding the correlation between drug addiction and criminal behavior, noting that many individuals involved in drug-related crimes are often trapped in a cycle of addiction. He cited reports indicating that drug traffickers are increasingly targeting rural areas in Northeast India, specifically among indigenous populations, exploiting socio-economic vulnerabilities such as poverty.
The forum also served as a platform to discuss the legal frameworks established to combat drug trafficking. Justice Bhuyan highlighted existing legal measures aimed at penalizing those involved in this illicit trade, reinforcing the message that stringent laws are crucial in the fight against drug abuse.
Attending the forum were notable figures such as District Judge Rachana Lal, SP of Karbi Anglong shri Sanjib Kumar Saikia, Vice-Chancellor of Assam University Gitali Rab, and Principal of Diphu Medical College Sumitra Hazarika, alongside students from Don Bosco School in Dibrugarh. The event fostered an interactive environment where participants engaged with Justice Ujwal Bhuyan, posing questions that enriched their understanding of the legal landscape surrounding drug abuse.
