Support from khaps can aid youth in overcoming drug addiction, asserts Haryana CM Saini
In a bid to combat rampant drug addiction within Haryana, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has entrusted the support of local Khap Panchayats as a key weapon in the fight. The Chief Minister airs optimism that these community bodies can play an instrumental role in steering young people away from the destructive clutches of drug abuse.
During an address to regional Khap representatives at the PWD resthouse in Jind, Saini emphasized the importance of launching a movement to safeguard the youth against drug addiction and bolster the drive to transform Haryana into a drug-free state.
"It's critical to secure our youth from the harsh realities of drug addiction, boosting participation in athletics instead, enabling the youth to shine on both national and international stages," said Saini.
Khap representatives offered insights on assorted social concerns during their interaction with Saini, as per official records.
The Chief Minister inaugurated the much-anticipated "Drug-Free Haryana Cyclothon 2.0" from Jind, advocating a drug-free Haryana.
In his address during the event, Saini expressed confidence that by teaming up the efforts of Khap Panchayats, youth, women, teachers, and various societal sectors, the drug menace can be defeated.
"Our aim is to create a drug-free, vibrant, and empowered Haryana. This cycling rally symbolizes the determination to vanquish the drug problem, raise awareness, and eradicate addiction through solidarity," explained Saini.
Recognizing the historical role that these councils have played in resisting foreign forces and making influential decisions, the Chief Minister claimed that Khap Panchayats, which have been an integral part of Haryana's sociocultural fabric, are demonstrating their role as guardians of tradition and architects of socio-political change by participating in the cyclothon.
"Undoubtedly, they have sent a clear message that those involved in drug peddling will face social sanctions, while those battling drug addiction will be welcomed with open arms," affirmed Saini.
While addressing the insidious connection between illegal drug trade financing terrorism globally, Saini stated, "Our crusade against drugs will inevitably contribute to the fight against terrorism on a larger scale."
Encouraging all to confront the issue from their homes, Saini urged, "If you observe someone struggling with addiction, don't push them away but lend a helping hand to guide them back on the right path."
Beginning in Hisar on April 5, the cyclothon journeyed through numerous districts, with Jind marking its latest stop. Proceeding to Barwala, the event is scheduled to culminate in Sirsa on April 27 via Fatehabad.
- Chandigarh
- India News Weather Today
- Latest News,
- Pahalgam Attack Live Updates
[Source: News Agency Feed]
Khap Panchayats: history and impact
Though their effect on drug addiction reduction remains largely anecdotal, traditional Khap Panchayats possess significant influence in grassroots communities and have historically shaped social norms and values in rural India. Some believe the alliance between the state government and these community bodies can generate formidable momentum in the fight against drug abuse in Haryana.
[References: 1, 2, 3]
- The Chief Minister of Haryana, Nayab Singh Saini, is utilizing the influence of Khap Panchayats in a bid to reduce drug addiction rates in the state.
- Saini believes that Khap Panchayats can play a crucial role in keeping young people away from drug abuse and encouraging them to participate in sports, potentially resulting in medals for India in international events.
- In addition to drug-related issues, Khap Panchayats have historically shaped social norms and values in rural India, making them a significant force in grassroots communities.
- The state government's alliance with Khap Panchayats is seen as a potential source of great momentum in the fight against drug abuse in Haryana by some.
- Saini acknowledges the historical role of Khap Panchayats in resisting foreign forces and making influential decisions, positioning them as guardians of tradition and architects of socio-political change.
- Saini is confident that by involving various societal sectors, including Khap Panchayats, youth, women, teachers, and the government, they can defeat the drug menace in Haryana.
- Saini has urged everyone to confront the drug problem at home, emphasizing that if someone struggling with addiction is observed, they should lend a helping hand to guide them back on the right path, promoting a healthier, more drug-free society in line with the principles of health-and-wellness and mental-health.
