AMUCO raises anti-drugs, alcohol banner
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, August 19 2020:
The All Manipur United Clubs' Organisation (AMUCO) has called on the people to curb sale of drugs and alcohol and their abuse amid COVID-19 pandemic.
Hinting that rampant drug abuse may worsen the COVID-19 pandemic further, AMUCO in a statement today pointed out that the time is right for the localities, clubs and Meira Paibis to check drugs and alcohol abuse when the COVID-19 pandemic has forced people to maintain social distance and become health conscious.
The COVID-19 situation in the State is worsening with increasing number of cases and people have very few means to avoid the spread of the virus.
Wearing of face masks, washing hands and use of hand sanitiser and maintaining social distance are the few means available and recommended by the health authority to face the pandemic.
Even as the pandemic brings chaos and health crisis, it has taught people the value of maintaining hygiene and good health.
It has forced people to maintain social distance and avoid crowding.
This is an opportunity COVID-19 is providing people to effectively curb drug abuse, said AMUCO hinting that encouraging people to live a healthy lifestyle is one way to face the pandemic.
To effectively face the COVID-19 outbreak and curb drug abuse at the same time, localities, clubs and Meira Paibis should prohibit and root out sale of intoxicants in their respective areas.
A firm stand against drug abuse at this hour will be more beneficial than erecting fences and blocking roads which cause only hurdles to essential and emergency services, said AMUCO.
While commenting on the surge in the number of COVID-19 cases in the State, AMUCO asserted that people should not put their whole trust in the Government to successfully fight the disease spread.
While the cases are rising, the politicians have their priority in their personal matters.
They are not engaged in raising awareness on COVID-19, instead they have been fighting for power when the State is facing an unprecedented health crisis, said AMUCO.
Stressing that the preparation for by-elections of several Constituencies have started amid the pandemic, AMUCO expressed apprehension that the elections may involve abuse/use of drugs and alcohol to win votes.
To save the future of the State, people must take this opportunity now to stand firm against drug trafficking and abuse.
Local clubs and Meira Paibis should remain vigilant and ban all illegal activities involving drugs/intoxicants in their areas, said AMUCO.