BANDIPORA, APRIL 20: Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, on Monday chaired a meeting with coaching centre owners at the Conference Hall to review measures for curbing drug abuse in the district.
It was informed that 14 registered coaching institutions are functional in the district, providing academic support to students from classes 8th to 12th, including JEE and NEET preparation. Coaching centre owners apprised that CCTV surveillance systems have been installed and are functional at key points including corridors, gates, and classrooms.
During the meeting, concerns were raised that some coaching institutions are increasingly becoming vulnerable spaces for substance abuse due to limited surveillance. The DC stressed the need for strict monitoring, including bag checking and frisking, and underscored that both men and women are involved as users as well as peddlers.
Referring to directives of the Home Department, the DC reiterated that strict action will be taken against any violation. A presentation on drug abuse awareness was also delivered during the session.
Padma Shri awardee, Faisal Ali Dar addressed the gathering and highlighted the rising trend of substance abuse, urging coordinated preventive efforts.
Coaching centre operators shared that measures such as regular attendance sharing with parents are being implemented. Suggestions were put forth to ban the sale of cigarettes and tobacco in and around institutes and to involve private skill development institutes in awareness initiatives.
The DC observed that while systems are in place, the desired outcomes are yet to be achieved, emphasizing the need to involve every stakeholder. She directed coaching institutions to conduct regular Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs) and stated that Action Taken Reports (ATRs) will be reviewed in next week.
Stressing vigilance and accountability, the DC called for a proactive approach, urging stakeholders to “respect all, suspect all” in the collective fight against drug abuse.