Times News NetworkCOIMBATORE: Terming drug addiction an “evil force” that can seize control of a person’s life, Coimbatore city police commissioner N Kannan on Friday appealed to youngsters to exercise absolute self-control and resist trying drugs even out of curiosity too.Speaking at an awareness event on the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking organised by Shankar IAS Academy, the IPS officer observed that avoiding substance abuse was far more important than even clearing competitive exams like the civil services, as addiction permanently jeopardises one’s future. Emphasising that drug abuse is a social crime, he called for collective societal action and appealed to the public to report illicit activities via the police helpline, promising strict confidentiality.Following his speech, Kannan flagged off a march, which saw more than 300 students, parents, teachers and citizens marching through Gandhipuram carrying banners. They shouted the slogan “Say No to Drugs; Let Us Unite to Build a Drug-Free Society.” Pamphlets detailing the harmful effects of narcotics were distributed to the public.District tourism officer Jegatheeswari and R S Arun, head of Shankar IAS Academy’s Coimbatore branch, also took part in the march. Jegatheeswari honoured successful TNPSC Group I exam achievers with certificates of appreciation.
