Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari calls for serious measures to combat the drug menace in the Valley

 Says, we cannot afford to let our youth fall prey to the grave evil; promises confidential assistance for the rehabilitation of the victims

 Apni Party leader kicked off ‘Kongposh Premier League’ cricket tournament in Pampore, and announced that more initiatives will follow

SRINAGAR, April 13: Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Thursday called on people from all walks of life to unite against the ongoing drug menace in the Valley and protect the young population from falling prey to this grave evil. He emphasised that society can no longer afford to lose youngsters to drugs and urged everyone to play his/ her role in eradicating the menace.

According to a statement issued here, Mr. Bukhari made these remarks while inaugurating the first season of the ‘Kongposh Premier League – 2023’ cricket tournament in the Pampore area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district today.

The tournament is an initiative aimed at attracting young people towards healthy and positive lifestyles and keeping them away from social evils, especially the persisting drug menace. The tournament was organized by Chairman BDC Pampore, Mohammad Altaf Mir, on behalf of the Apni Party, the press note said.

While talking to reporters at the event, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said, “Apni Party has decided to take a range of initiatives, including skill development training for the youth, with the aim of empowering the youngsters and protecting them from the ongoing drug abuse in J&K.”

He clarified, “We are not taking these initiatives for political benefits or electoral gains; rather, this is a sincere effort to shoulder our responsibility towards society. Given the severity of the drug menace and its impact on society, I think every one of us ought to play his/her role in eradicating this destructive evil.”

Apni Party President made a promise that he would extend his assistance in rehabilitating the drug victims. He said that if anyone approaches him seeking help for the rehabilitation of an addict, he will provide support while ensuring the victim’s identity remains confidential.

Mr Bukhari urged the administration to take serious measures to nab each and every person who is responsible for the smuggling and sale of drugs in society.

 He said these criminals are playing with the lives of people, and they must face severe punishment.  

Besides Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, the prominent party leaders who were present on the occasion included Vice President Zaffar Iqbal Manhas, State Secretary and District President Badgam Muntazir Mohiuddin, District President Pulwama G. M. Mir, Vice Charman DDC Srinagar Bilal Ahmad, BDC Chairman Pampore Mohammad Altaf Mir, senior leader Umar Jan, and others.

(NOTE: PRESS RELEASE PUBLISHED AS RECEIVED)