Fight Drugs Not Each Other

By Dr. Ashaq Hussain

The fight against drugs is not just a policy, it is a responsibility we all share”

In recent weeks, like the other parts of Nation,  Jammu and Kashmir too is witnessing  a strong and determined push by the administration through the 100-day Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA), a campaign aimed at freeing society, especially the youth, from the grip of drug addiction. Streets, colleges, and public spaces have become centres of awareness activities, rallies, and outreach programmes. Yet, alongside this visible effort, a wave of criticism has emerged on social media. Many people argue that the government appears to be sending mixed signals, on one side is promoting anti-drug campaigns while simultaneously allowing the opening of numerous wine shops. To some, this looks like a contradiction; to others, even an “eye-wash.” However, a deeper and more balanced understanding reveals that the issue is far more complex and rooted in practical governance, public health priorities, and socio-economic realities.

For me, at the heart of the NMBA campaign lies an urgent and alarming crisis, the rapid spread of hard drugs such as heroin and synthetic substances like chitta. These are not merely intoxicants; they are highly addictive, life-threatening chemicals that destroy individuals and families within a short span of time. Present reports indicate a troubling rise in addiction cases, particularly among the youth. Unlike alcohol, which is socially and legally regulated, these drugs enter the region through illegal channels, often linked to cross-border smuggling networks. In many cases, the earnings from this illicit trade are believed to fund criminal activities and even terrorism. This transforms the drug menace from a simple public health issue into a matter of national security.

Thus, viewed in this light, the NMBA campaign is not just an initiative but is an emergency response to a serious and immediate threat. The focus is clear: to break the supply chains of dangerous drugs, to rehabilitate those already affected, and to prevent new users from falling into the trap. Police crackdowns, property seizures of drug peddlers, and intensified surveillance are all part of this effort. Simultaneously, awareness programmes in schools and colleges aim to educate young minds about the devastating consequences of drug abuse. These actions demonstrate that the campaign is not merely symbolic but backed by concrete measures on the ground.

The controversy around the opening of wine shops, however, stems from a broader moral and social concern. Many people believe that alcohol, too, is addictive and harmful, and therefore should not be promoted in any form. While this concern is valid, the government’s approach distinguishes between illegal narcotics and regulated substances and so is the motive of NMBA campaign. Alcohol, despite its risks, is a legal product in India, governed by strict laws related to production, distribution, and consumption. The opening of licensed wine shops is part of a regulated system that allows the state to monitor quality, enforce age restrictions, and prevent the circulation of spurious or toxic liquor, which has historically led to fatal incidents.

Complete prohibition of alcohol, though appealing in principle, has often produced unintended consequences. Experiences from various regions have shown that bans tend to create thriving black markets, where unregulated and often dangerous products are sold. Such underground networks then not only pose greater health risks but also strengthen criminal elements by diverting money away from the state’s formal economy just like the present Narcotic trade. By maintaining a regulated framework, the government seeks to minimize these risks while keeping control over the system.

Another important dimension often overlooked in public debates is the role of revenue. Taxes collected from the sale of alcohol constitute a significant portion of the state’s income. This revenue is used to fund essential public services such as healthcare, education, infrastructure development, and, importantly, de-addiction and rehabilitation programmes. In a paradoxical but practical sense, the income generated from a regulated substance is being used to combat the far more dangerous and unregulated drug menace. While this may appear contradictory at first glance, it reflects a strategy of using available resources to address a larger crisis.

Above all, it is also crucial to recognize the difference in the nature and impact of substances being discussed. Alcohol, when consumed responsibly and within legal limits, is treated as a matter of personal choice in many societies. In contrast, substances like heroin and synthetic opioids have no safe level of consumption. They lead to rapid physical and psychological dependency, severe health deterioration, and often fatal outcomes. Moreover, their illegal nature means that users are exposed to unsafe products and criminal environments, further increasing the risk to their lives and society at large. The NMBA campaign, therefore, prioritizes the elimination of these high-risk substances that pose an immediate threat to public health and safety.

Still for me as a common citizen, public concerns should not be dismissed. The perception of contradiction can weaken trust and reduce the effectiveness of even well-intentioned initiatives. For the NMBA campaign to achieve its desired impact, it must go beyond enforcement and awareness and adopt a more holistic and inclusive approach even to restrict the open consumption of alcohol. One of the most important steps is strengthening de-addiction and rehabilitation services. Many individuals struggling with addiction require medical treatment, psychological counselling, and long-term support to reintegrate into society.  Equally important is the role of education and community engagement. Awareness campaigns should not be limited to occasional events but integrated into school curricula and community programmes. Skill development and employment opportunities can also play a vital role in prevention. A large number of youth fall into addiction due to unemployment, frustration, and lack of direction. Providing meaningful opportunities can help channel their energy in a positive direction.

Technology can further enhance the effectiveness of the campaign. Helplines, mobile applications, and online counselling platforms can provide accessible support to those in need, especially in remote areas. Anonymous reporting systems can encourage citizens to share information about drug-related activities without fear. At the same time, strict monitoring of licensed alcohol outlets is necessary to ensure that regulations are followed, and misuse is minimized. This includes enforcing age restrictions, preventing over-selling, and conducting regular inspections.

Ultimately, the NMBA campaign represents a critical step in addressing one of the most pressing challenges of today. While the debate over alcohol policy continues, it is important not to lose sight of the primary objective, protecting the youth from the devastating effects of hard drugs. The government’s approach, though complex and sometimes controversial, is driven by the need to tackle an immediate crisis while managing long-term socio-economic realities.

The road to a drug-free society is neither simple nor free of contradictions. It requires difficult choices, sustained efforts, and the active participation of every section of society. Criticism and debate are healthy in a democracy, but they must be accompanied by understanding and constructive engagement. The NMBA campaign is not a perfect solution, but it is a necessary beginning. With sustained efforts, deeper awareness, and a shared sense of responsibility, this mission can drive real change and ensure a healthier future for our youth. Let us join hands with the NMBA campaign, because a nation’s future rests in its young minds and drugs remain its most silent and dangerous enemy.

Dr.  Ashaq Hussain is Associate Professor Chemistry at Govt Gandhi Memorial (GGM) Science College, Jammu and can be reached at joinchemistry@gmail.com