It cannot be denied that criminal activities are on the rise, and at the heart of it lies the widespread drug trade and drug abuse. This menace has become one of the greatest destructive forces in society today.
Those who follow international news have seen the horrifying impact of drugs on the streets of Philadelphia in the United States. It is a grim reminder of what addiction can do. Once trapped, people often lose the will to live with their families. Their cravings become so overwhelming that they no longer behave like normal human beings. In many cases their condition appears even worse than that of animals. What was once distant news is now a reality we are witnessing here in Shillong.
Over the last one to two years, concern among parents has deepened as reports of increasing drug abuse continue to emerge from various localities and villages. The problem is no longer confined to the city. Even rural areas, where such issues were once uncommon, are now affected.
In this grim scenario, it is encouraging to see the Hynniewtrep Youth Council stepping forward. The HYC has declared an all-out campaign to eradicate the drug menace and has backed it with active service on the ground. Their commitment shows a strong sense of responsibility toward society, particularly toward the indigenous people of Ri Hynniewtrep.
The emergence of this movement has made people pause and reflect. It has also offered renewed hope that a brighter future is still possible for Shillong and the entire Khasi and Jaintia Hills. While ordinary citizens may not be able to join the frontlines directly, there is widespread support for the noble work being done by the organization.
What is surprising, however, is the apparent lack of urgency from the government. Despite having the authority and resources to act decisively, the state’s response has not matched the scale of the crisis. In contrast, leaders and members of the HYC have put their own safety at risk to confront those who form the backbone of the illegal drug trade.
The fallout is visible in our daily lives. Public safety has deteriorated. People no longer feel secure while travelling or going about their work because of a rise in robberies, thefts and violent crimes.
Much of this is linked to drug abuse. Those addicted often lose self-control and resort to stealing simply to fund their next dose.
For them, drugs become more essential than food. Missing even a single dose brings intense withdrawal, making it extremely difficult to break free once trapped.
Everyone knows that fighting drugs is dangerous. Those involved in the trade are often ruthless and desperate. Yet the battle cannot be left to a few.
With cooperation and collective responsibility from every community and every citizen, we can hope to restore peace and dignity to our society.
