Uttarakhand: Questions raised over the drug-free Uttarakhand campaign; Haridwar Traders’ Association criticizes the government and police

The ground reality of the campaign launched by the Uttarakhand government to make the state drug-free by 2025 has once again come under question. A press conference was held today by the Haridwar Traders’ Association, where the “Drug-Free Uttarakhand” campaign was reviewed and described as being limited to mere paperwork.

Haridwar Traders’ Association Questions the Drug-Free Uttarakhand Campaign
During the press conference, the association’s office-bearers alleged that the government’s campaign has not yet materialized on the ground. They stated that the Haridwar City Police Station and all the police outposts under its jurisdiction have completely failed to effectively curb the drug trade.

Adhir Kaushik, president of the Akhand Parshuram Akhara, expressed deep concern, saying that the children who should be holding books are now seen with drugs in their hands. This situation is extremely worrying not only for society but also for the future.

Alcohol, Marijuana, and Smack Being Sold Openly on the Banks of the Ganges
Adhir Kaushik strongly criticized the administration, stating that the open sale of alcohol, marijuana, and smack on the sacred banks of the Ganges reflects the administration’s utter failure. He alleged that these drug mafias enjoy the protection of local leaders, due to which no concrete and effective action is being taken against them.

Demand for Action Against Drug Traffickers
Kaushik warned that if the administration does not take strict action against drug traffickers soon, the Akhand Parshuram Akhara and the Traders’ Association will be forced to resort to agitation. The Traders’ Association demanded that the government and the police administration not limit the “Drug-Free Uttarakhand” campaign to mere announcements, but take concrete and effective action at the ground level.