Madurai city police on Tuesday formally launched Anti-Narcotics Clubs in 24 colleges here to create awareness of the evils of drug abuse and to eventually make the college campuses drug-free.
Commissioner of Police S. Davidson Devasirvatham administered an anti-narcotics pledge to the club members at the inaugural meeting on the occasion of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. Hundreds of students from various colleges, polytechnics and Industrial Training Institutes participated in a rally that was taken out from Tamukkam grounds to Panangal Road.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Davidson said that the colleges should come up with one activity to be conducted every month for creating awareness of the evils of drug abuse among the members.
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“The city police is planning a mega inter-college competition for the club members and honour the best performers. The competitive spirit will bring in more involvement for the club members,” the Commissioner said.
Recalling that he had realised the adverse effects of drug abuse during his five-year stint in Narcotics Control Bureau, as its south zone Director, Mr. Davidson said that there was increase in the number of persons involved in drug abuse.
“Without cutting the demand for drugs, it is very hard to prevent the supply chain,” he said.
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Drug abuse not only ruins the physical and mental health of innocent youngsters, but also affects the family members. Drug abuse was behind many crimes like murder and rape.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Headquarters) J. Mahesh said that more colleges would be encouraged to have the anti-narcotics clubs.
A psychiatrist Dheep and paediatrician Prasanna explained to the students how addiction to various types of drugs impacted the students and youths.