Shillong, May 4: In view of the rising crimes against women and children, a seminar on “Drug Abuse and Social Evils” was held at Burney Hills Secondary School, Tura on Friday.

Former Director School Education and Literacy, J.D. Sangma inaugurated the seminar, organised by Tura Garo Senior Citizen Forum (TGSCF), West Garo Hills district.

Addressing the gathering, J D Sangma stressed on the need to reach out to the youth to educate them about the menace of alcohol, drugs and substance abuse.

Stating that that drug abuse has become a major social concern and student has become vulnerable, Sangma urged the students to stay away from any kind of bad habits which are detrimental to the life of a person since indulging in these activities only brings misery to one’s life.

He also urged the students to cultivate good, presentable and acceptable behaviour and become successful person in their future career.

During the technical session, Dr Bethel D Marak, Medical Officer, Tura Civil Hospital highlighted various forms of alcohol and drug abuse and their harmful effects. She also informed that taking medicine without doctor’s prescription is equally harmful for person’s health.

Advocate, R R Marak dwelt at length on the subject “Social Evils” and said that these social evils occurred due to our own inhuman acts which have persisted due to the negligence in the society. The Advocate also pointed to incidents of domestic violence and increasing rape cases in the state where people are reluctant to file an FIR.

TGSCF Vice-President and former Director of Fisheries, C.T. Sangma highlighted the aims and objectives of organising the seminar for the benefit of students of the area.

She informed that the programme aims to create awareness and sensitise the students about the effects of drugs and substance abuse and urged everyone to come forward and help to eradicate this social menace.