Inter-faith moot denounces drug abuse

Speakers stress all religions prohibit narcotics

KARACHI:

The Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) Sindh on the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, here on Wednesday organized an impactful Inter-Faith Conference.

This unique event brought together religious leaders from a diverse range of faiths, including Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Hinduism, and Zoroastrianism, to address the pressing issue of drug abuse.

The conference, held at the Arts Council of Pakistan, Karachi, saw a united front from religious leadership, as speakers from each faith denounced drug abuse.

They emphasized that drug abuse was strictly prohibited in their respective religions, reinforcing the universal message that substance abuse undermines the moral and ethical fabric of society.

ANF Sindh Force Commander Brigadier Umer Farooq highlighted the rising use and demand for drugs like crystal meth, ecstasy, and methamphetamine among the youth.

He called on religious leaders to collaborate with the ANF in eradicating this scourge according to their beliefs.

Markazi Ulema Council Sindh President Maulana Azad Jameel stressed the importance of parental involvement in combating this trend and underscored Islamic teachings that view drug abuse as harmful and counterproductive.

Representing the Christian community, Right Reverend Frederick John, the Bishop of Karachi and Balochistan Diocese, informed about the rehabilitation work of an institution named Ibtida.

Ram Nath Maharaj, representing the Hindu community, cited the prohibition of drug abuse in the Bhagavad Gita and Vedas.

He mentioned that his community has initiated sports activities to keep the youth away from drugs.

The Sikh and Parsi speakers also reiterated that their religious doctrines explicitly forbid drug abuse, underscoring a shared commitment to combating this social menace.