DLSA West launches first-of-its kind initiative to fight drug menace among youth

New Delhi: The District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), under the aegis of Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA) and National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), launched a special campaign against drugs and substance abuse in the national capital on Saturday.

The special drive to encourage addicted youths to give up drug abuse and prevent the vulnerable ones from getting addicted, was launched on the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

The unique initiative by West District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) to fight drug menace among youths comes at an opportune time, when the nation is celebrating the Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav.

West DLSA joined hands with the Delhi Police for this first-ever initiative which kicked off with counselling session at PS Rajouri Garden. The counselling camp organised by DLSA, in association with DCP West Ms Urvija Goel, began with counselling and treatment of about 18 first time drug abusers.

This was followed by awareness campaign near transit camp area in West Delhi.

The unique drive was made possible with the able guidance of Dharmesh Sharma, Ld. Principal District & Sessions Judge/Chairperson, West DLSA.

Campaign against drug abuse

The first-of-its campaign against drug abuse in youngsters comprised of two steps, under which offenders were counselled & treated while for those prone to drugs, information about legal aid services & helpline services was disseminated.

1) Several first time offenders (list given by Delhi Police) were counselled at PS Rajouri Garden about drugs and substance Abuse. Counsellors from SPYM and Narcotics Anonymous motivated them to give up harmful habit. Sunil Gupta, Ld. Secretary, West DLSA also interacted with them.

1) A Nukkad Natak by Asmita Theatre Group performed at the Transit Camp, Raghubir Nagar, spreading message about ill effects of Drugs Abuse. The participants in the program were told about existence of Legal Aid Services and Helpline no. 1516.

Ld. Secretary, West DLSA and SHO PS Rajouri Garden also addressed the gathering. This was followed by a Help Desk manned by LAC and Counsellors. Pamphlets printed by West DLSA were distributed amongst people. More than 200 people benefitted from the program.