Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], September 29 : In an ongoing effort to combat the drug menace in the state, the Himachal Pradesh Police organised their 11th consecutive annual half marathon on Sunday. The event is aimed at raising awareness about drug abuse and highlighting the importance of physical activity.
The half marathon was inaugurated by Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla. In his speech, the governor lauded the efforts of the police and urged citizens to contribute to the fight against drug addiction.
"I congratulate the Himachal Pradesh Police for organising this marathon, and I call on every citizen to support this cause. Let's all work together, from cities to villages, to rid Himachal of drugs and preserve the sanctity of this Devbhoomi," said Shukla.
The governor also spoke about the ongoing protests regarding the dispute surrounding the alleged illegal construction of Sanjauli mosque, saying that people have the right to express their views but it should be done within the ambit of the law.
"There is a right to protest and express one's views, but not by going beyond the law and the law should be allowed to do its work. People should be inspired for it, the movement should be peaceful, whoever expresses their views, should definitely tell the administration about this. Everyone is free to express their views but no one is free to break the law and order," he added.
Thousands of participants, from young children to senior citizens, joined the event with a shared mission to curb the increasing use of narcotics in the region.
Seema Devi, a participant in the marathon, expressed her appreciation for the long-standing efforts of the Himachal Pradesh Police.
"For the past 11 years, the police have been working tirelessly to spread awareness, and this marathon is a fantastic initiative. Our youth are the backbone of this country, and they need to stay away from drugs if we are to move forward as a nation," she said.
She added that events like this should continue in the future to keep the momentum of awareness alive.
Moreover, representatives from various sectors of society took part in the marathon.
Sanjeev Kumar, a local teacher, emphasised the increasing vulnerability of students to drug abuse, "Over the past few years, I've seen more and more students falling prey to drugs. This must stop if India is to truly progress. Events like this marathon not only promote physical and mental well-being but also keep people away from negative influences like drugs."
Seventy-year-old Shivram, another participant, noted the symbolic importance of his participation.
"If I can run at 70 to fight drug addiction, why can't a 15-year-old? This movement is not just about running it's about the future of our youth, keeping them safe from this poison," Shivram said.
Anupam Kashyap, Deputy Commissioner of Shimla, highlighted the significance of the event, which saw over 3,000 participants. He reiterated the district's commitment to combating drug abuse on a mission-driven scale. "Schools, colleges, Mahila Mandals, and Yuvak Mandals across the district are actively participating in the fight against drugs. We need to ensure our youth remain disciplined and focused on their education and physical well-being to prevent drug abuse," Kashyap said.
Shimla's Superintendent of Police, Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, emphasised the collaborative nature of the anti-drug campaign, stating that the battle against addiction must be fought at every level of society.
He revealed that over the past year, the district police had recommended the cancellation of more than 1,500 driving licenses for those found guilty of driving under the influence, a significant factor contributing to road accidents.
"While police enforcement plays a role, public participation is crucial in this fight against addiction. Only by working together can we truly achieve a drug-free Himachal." said SP Gandhi.