 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Apr 10: National Conference Additional General Secretary and former Minister, Mr. Ajay Kumar Sadhotra, today called upon the people of Jammu and Kashmir to stand united against the rising tide of hatred, intolerance, and communal polarization.
Addressing a public meeting at Marh which was organized by Raghubir Singh Manhas District President, Randhir Singh District Secretary, Charanjeet Singh Block President Marh and S. J V Singh Raju Vice President. Mr Sadhotra said that after facing terrorism with resilience and unity, the people must now come together to confront and defeat divisive forces seeking to disturb peace and social harmony. "The people of Jammu and Kashmir have time and again proven that unity is our strength. Today, when attempts are being made to divide us on religious and communal lines, we must reaffirm our commitment to our composite culture and inclusive way of life. These values have been the core ideology of the National Conference since its inception and remain central to the party's vision for a peaceful and progressive J&K", he added.
Mr Sadhotra said that divisive forces must not only be defeated but also socially alienated, as they pose a threat to the peaceful coexistence and centuries-old brotherhood among communities.
Expressing serious concern over the growing drug menace among the youth, Mr. Sadhotra said that this silent epidemic is destroying the younger generation, weakening families, and threatening the very fabric of our society. The fallout of drug abuse is widespread, ranging from mental health issues and academic failures to rising crimes, broken families, and even untimely deaths," he said.
Mr Sadhotra said that unemployment and lack of opportunities have become a major cause of frustration among youth, especially during the past one decade, pushing some of them towards drugs and other destructive paths. The sense of hopelessness among young people must be addressed with seriousness, he said, adding that a generation full of potential is being lost to addiction. This unfortunate drug menace is going to weaken generations together and it would badly affect our country.
He exuded confidence that the pro-poor and pro-youth government led by Chief Minister Jenab Omar Abdullah will address the concerns of the youth on priority.
Mr. Sadhotra also urged the government to take a proactive role in tackling the drug crisis by addressing the root causes such and initiating targeted schemes, skill- building programs, counseling, and rehabilitation services to pull the youth out of this dark trap and give them a sense of purpose.
Mr Sadhotra also called upon society at large to play its part, adding that the parents, teachers, community leaders, NGOs, and religious and social institutions must come together in a unified mission to save the youth. This is not just a government responsibility but every home, every mohalla, every institution must get involved to meet this challenge, he said.
Mr. Sadhotra said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir have always rejected hate and resisted division by working together to promote peace, brotherhood, and prosperity.
Prominent among those present on the occasion included Ghar Singh Provincial Joint Secretary Ex-Corporator, Rakesh Sharma District President YNC, Ch Vikas Block President YNC Marh, Subedar Ghasita Ram Ex-Sarpanch, Piar Singh Ex-Sarpanch, Keemat Lal Ex-Sarpanch, Baru Ram Bhagat Ex-Sarpanch, Khajoor Lal Bhagat Ex-Sarpanch, Capt Joginder Bhagat, Pt. Rameshwar Sharma, Ch Baru, Yash Pal Sharma Advocate, Ram Lal. |
