AMADA celebrates foundation anniversary
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 20 2011: All Manipur Anti Drug Association (AMADA) celebrated its sixth foundation anniversary with renewed pledge to emancipate the people of Manipur from drugs and other intoxicants.

The celebration held at its Keishampat head office was attended by Department of Social Welfare Director G Satyabati Devi and AMADA president M Padama Leima as the chief guest and functional president respectively while Narcotics Control Bureau (Imphal Regional unit) Superintendent RK Ibungosana, Public Prosecutor advocate Ng Tejkumar, Bishnupur District hospital Psychiatric Dr H Angomcha and AIM (Lilong) secretary Haji Muheiuddin graced the occasion as the guests of honour.

a book entitled 'Reminder' was also released on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering G Satyabati highlighting that no religion professes use of drugs called upon the preachers of different religion to join the fight against the menace of drugs and alcoholism.

Regretting that respect for the elders by the younger generation have gradually dissipated, she emphasised on organising awareness campaigns to show the younger generation the path of righteousness.

Speaking at the occasion, Ng Tejkumar grimly noted that indulgence in drugs had been adding to the population of widows in the State and likened use of drugs and excessive alcohol to committing suicide.

The Public Prosecutor also explained that the fast unto death by Irom Chanu Sharmila is for the betterment of the society whereas suicide through use of drugs tantamount to dragging the society to the pit-hole.

Pointing out that possessing 5 grams of heroin is punishable under law including imprisonment for upto six months along with penalty of Rs 10,000 with 10 years jail term and fine of Rs 1 lakh if the offender is found possessing over 5 gram but below 250 grams, he also informed that both jail term and penalty will be longer period and higher amount according to increase in the quantity of the drug.

Stating that law enforcing agents alone cannot solve the issue of drug abuse in the society, Tejkumar stressed on concerted effort of the people in the combat against the menace.

While AMADA general secretary Ph Phoni Meetei delivered the key note address, Haji Muheiuddin called upon all concern to join the campaign against drugs with the grim reminder that today's youngsters are more inclined towards drugs rather than concentrate their youthful energy in academic pursuit.

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