CUK observes International Day against drug abuse

Ganderbal, Jun 25: To spread awareness among the students, research scholars, faculty members and other functionaries of the Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) about the rampant drug abuse and its fallouts, Dean Students Welfare and Health Centre in collaboration with the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) Kashmir with the support from Sun Pharma (Sirius Division) organised a one-day general psychiatry wellness camp and an awareness cum lecture session on “Mission Drug Free Campus,” to observe the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking,” on Wednesday.

Addressing the participants, Dean School of Physical and Chemical Sciences, Prof Muhammad Yousuf described the rampant drug abuse in the country and particularly in Jammu and Kashmir as alarming and called for immediate and stringent measures.

Consultant (IMHANS), Dr Ajaz Ahmad Suhaff gave an overview of the drug abuse problem in the Kashmir valley and the challenges faced by the medicos in dealing with the increasing number of such cases. In his address, Dean DSW, Prof Irfan Aalam said that combating drug abuse requires a multi-pronged approach. Asst Prof Deptt of Law, Dr Reehan Shawl in her welcome address, described it as a health issue and not a moral flaw. Asst Prof Deptt of Law, Dr Mudasir Bhat who conducted the programme proceedings said the drug abusers deserve empathy and not judgment. Earlier, a psychiatry and wellness camp was organised in collaboration with IMHANS wherein free counseling sessions, mental health screening, and basic psychiatric consultation were offered to both the students and staff.