Ulema, Scholars, and Activists Unite in Kashmir to Tackle Drug Addiction and Women’s Issues
A significant seminar addressing the escalating menace of drug addiction and the multifaceted issues affecting women in Kashmir was recently held at the Community Center Kralgund in North Kashmir’s Kupwara district. This pivotal event was organized by Abu Baseer Karwaan J&K and saw the convergence of Ulema, scholars, Imams, civil society activists, and students, all coming together with a shared resolve to confront these pressing social challenges head-on.
In his powerful inaugural speech, Mufti Hilal articulated deep concern over the alarming rise in drug abuse among both boys and girls in the Valley. He emphasized the critical issue of easy availability of drugs, which has led to a significant increase in addiction rates. “This seminar aims to unite us in combating drug addiction, which threatens the future of our society,” Mufti Hilal passionately declared, highlighting the urgency of collective action to safeguard the youth and, by extension, the future of Kashmir.
Furthermore, Mufti Hilal shed light on the equally pressing issues of domestic violence and gender-based discrimination. In a predominantly Muslim society that prides itself on upholding the dignity and rights of women, these issues are particularly concerning. “It is the responsibility of Ulema, Imams, and Khateebs to raise awareness about women’s rights and foster respect for them as enshrined in Islam,” he asserted, calling for a concerted effort to promote gender equality and protect women’s rights.
Speakers at the seminar, as reported by the news agency Kashmir News Trust, underscored the detrimental effects of drug addiction on individuals and society at large. They urged for unified efforts to eradicate this menace, emphasizing the need for awareness, education, and community support. Students, in particular, were encouraged to abstain from drugs and other social evils, and instead, aspire to be role models in fields such as education and sports. The speakers also highlighted the importance of rehabilitation centers in aiding recovery and providing a lifeline for those battling addiction.
One speaker poignantly remarked, “Drug addiction is creating severe health problems for our youth, with the student community being particularly vulnerable.” This statement resonated deeply with the audience, driving home the importance of addressing the issue at its root.
The seminar was graced by several prominent attendees, including Tehsildar Kralgund Ghulam Rasool Bhat as the chief guest, BDO Qaziabad Naveed Altaf as the guest of honor, and DySP Dr. Abdul Majid. Other key participants included Waseem Ahmad Shah, SHO Kralgund, along with esteemed members of Abu Baseer Karwaan such as Mufti Shakir Ahmad, Mufti Irfan, and Qari Owais. Representatives from the Elite Institute of Excellence, including Er. Tawseef Nazir Lone and Bilal Ahmad Malik, also played a crucial role in the seminar.
Moderated by Mufti Rayees Ahmad, the seminar concluded with a collective call for responsibility and action. The attendees were urged to work together in addressing drug addiction and social evils to build a healthier, more equitable society in Kashmir. The event fostered a sense of unity and purpose, leaving participants motivated to contribute to positive change in their communities.
Key Takeaways:
- Community Engagement: The seminar successfully brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including religious leaders, scholars, activists, and students, to address critical social issues.
- Drug Addiction Awareness: Speakers highlighted the rising prevalence of drug abuse and its severe impact on youth, calling for community-wide efforts to combat the problem.
- Women’s Rights: The seminar emphasized the importance of protecting women’s rights and addressing domestic violence and gender-based discrimination.
- Role Models: Students were encouraged to lead by example in various fields, including education and sports, to inspire positive change.
- Rehabilitation: The importance of rehabilitation centers in supporting recovery from addiction was underscored.
