Eluru officials told to educate students on drug abuse

Eluru District Collector K. Vetriselvi has asked the officials to take stringent measures to curb the consumption and sale of ganja, drugs, and other narcotic substances.

Chairing the District Narcotics Prevention Committee meeting on Friday, she said creating a drug-free Eluru district requires collective effort from every section of society. Individuals involved in possession, consumption or transportation of narcotic substances will face criminal action, lose eligibility for government jobs and passports, and carry a permanent criminal record, she said.

Ms. Selvi instructed officials to intensify awareness campaigns in schools and colleges by putting up posters and organising counselling sessions to educate students about the ill-effects of drug abuse. She urged the youth not to fall prey to drugs.

Citizens have been asked to report instances of drug use or peddling in educational institutions by calling the toll-free number 1972, assuring that the identity of informants will be kept confidential. She added that those addicted to narcotics would receive treatment through de-addiction centres.

Additional SP Nakka Suryachandra Rao, District Medical and Health Officer Dr. P.J. Amrutham, District Education Officer M. Venkatalakshmamma, Agriculture JD Sheikh Habeeb Basha, Excise Superintendent A. Awulayya, and several other department heads participated in the meeting.