Dibrugarh: All Assam Students’ Union’s (Aasu) Dibrugarh unit held an anti-drug rally on Tuesday as part of the students’ body’s statewide campaign.Led by unit president Priyo Pratim Sonowal and secretary Rishav Phukan, the procession passed through several parts of the city. Students and members of the organisation participated, carrying placards with messages against drug abuse and calling for a drug-free Assam.The rally aimed to raise awareness among young people about the harmful effects of drug abuse and highlight the need for coordinated action by society, educational institutions, families and the administration.Speaking at the rally, Sonowal said the drug problem had assumed serious proportions across Assam and required sustained efforts from all sections of society.“Drugs have taken the form of an epidemic across the whole of Assam. A collective effort from everyone is crucial to make Assam drug-free. A drug-free Assam is one of the primary goals of Aasu,” Sonowal said.He said the govt and administration must intensify action against those involved in the illegal drug trade instead of limiting efforts to awareness campaigns.“Our clear demand to the govt and the administration is to uproot drug traffickers and dealers completely and ensure the strictest possible punishment for those involved in the illegal drug trade,” he said.Aasu leaders said young people were particularly vulnerable to drug abuse and stressed the need for awareness campaigns in schools, colleges and communities. They also called for greater involvement of parents, teachers and community organisations in identifying and preventing substance abuse among youths.The rally was part of Aasu’s statewide anti-drug awareness programme, with similar initiatives being organised across Assam.
