Congress demands creation of Drug Prevention Board in Uttarakhand

DEHRDAUN: Expressing concern over the growing tendency of drug abuse among the youth in Uttarakhand, Congress today sought the help of prominent people of the state in creation of a Drug Prevention Board to effectively combat the challenge.

"It is one of the toughest challenges before us. Teenagers are often caught sniffing thinners and other similar stuff while a large number of college students are helplessly in the grip of drug abuse," Uttarakhand Pradesh Congress General Secretary Anand Rawat said.

Citing it as a matter of great concern, he said, "I appeal to all you friends to use your influence and help set up a Drug Prevention Board in the state to fight the growing menace".

Rawat had recently submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister demanding creation of a Drug Prevention Board headed by a retired judge with powers to summon District Magistrates.

Anand, who is also the son of Chief Minister Harish Rawat, said the board should conduct anti-drug campaigns in the state including awareness drives and set up de-addiction centres in the districts.