On Tuesday, Nitin Y. Rao, Senior Civil Judge and Member Secretary of the Udupi District Legal Services Authority, inaugurated the #RISE & BeDa BRO anti-drug awareness programme at Shyamili Auditorium in Ambalpady, Udupi. During the event, Judge Rao emphasized the importance of staying away from drugs, citing the devastating impact of drug addiction on individuals, families, and society as a whole. He expressed concern over the growing incidence of drug addiction among young people, often triggered by misconceptions and peer pressure. Judge Rao explained the legal consequences of drug possession under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, highlighting the varying punishments based on the quantity of drugs seized.
Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar also addressed the gathering, pointing out the role of social media in fueling drug abuse among youth. He announced the introduction of a QR code-based reporting system to combat narcotics and urged the public to support the police department’s anti-drug awareness campaign. Additional Deputy Commissioner Abid Gadyal presided over the programme, emphasizing the importance of personal choices in avoiding harmful habits like drug abuse. Other dignitaries present included District Surgeon Dr. Ashok Kumar and Director of Youth Empowerment and Sports Dr. Roshan Shetty.
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📰 Source: Mangalorean News