Key Points:
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Police Prioritization of VIP Security: The Islamabad police admitted that they prioritize VIP security over combating drug use in educational institutions, leading to limited resources for anti-drug efforts.
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Ongoing Efforts: The police have made efforts, such as monitoring 1,094 educational institutions, collaborating with the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), and conducting awareness sessions. However, these efforts are constrained by the focus on VIP security.
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Drug Use Among Students: Surveys show a high prevalence of drug use, particularly heroin, hashish, and methamphetamine, among students in elite schools and universities. Around 60% of drug users in Pakistan are from the educated class.
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Alarming Statistics: A 2016 survey found that 43-53% of students in elite schools were involved in drug use. The petition stresses that drug addiction is severely affecting youth health and development.
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Call for Action: The petition urges authorities to take strict legal action against drug dealers in educational institutions and implement comprehensive measures to make Islamabad a drug-free city.
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Petitioner’s Argument: The petitioner advocates for educational programs to inform students about the harmful effects of drugs, emphasizing moral and religious education over solely relying on policing.
The Islamabad police’s admission that VIP security is prioritized over addressing drug use in educational institutions raises concerns about the safety and well-being of students. While efforts to combat drug use exist, they are hampered by resource allocation. The rising drug addiction among students, especially in elite schools, is a pressing issue that requires immediate and sustained intervention. The petition urges stronger legal actions and educational programs to curb drug use, making it crucial for the authorities to reassess their priorities to safeguard student health and promote a drug-free environment in educational institutions.
