Srinagar, Dec 17 (KNS): Civil Society Forum Kashmir (CSFK) on Wednesday expressed concern over the seizure of cocaine worth Rs 10 crore in Ganderbal, terming the availability of cocaine a new challenge for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
In a statement, CSFK said cocaine is among the substances used for drug addiction and poses serious risks, including sudden deaths, cardiovascular complications, neurological effects and behavioural changes.
The forum said Jammu and Kashmir was already facing the issue of a large number of heroin addicts and that the emergence of cocaine availability had added to the challenge. It noted that the pattern of drug addiction in Kashmir required urgent attention.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
CSFK said the growth of drug peddling networks and easy availability of narcotic substances had affected society and called for immediate intervention.
The forum urged the government to review its policies and evolve a coordinated strategy involving all concerned departments to curb drug abuse in the region.
It also appealed to civil society, religious leaders, trade bodies, educational institutions, coaching centres, business organisations and transport associations to come forward and play a role in preventing drug addiction.(KNS).