Raises concern over mobile phone and social media use among youth; stresses compassion and social harmony
SRINAGAR, Nov 7: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday called for collective efforts to tackle drug abuse and other social problems, expressing concern over the growing impact of substance abuse and excessive use of mobile phones and social media on the younger generation.
Addressing a function in Srinagar, Abdullah said building a peaceful and harmonious society required people to uphold values of humanity, compassion, brotherhood, mutual respect and concern for the poor, alongside religious teachings.
Expressing concern over the increasing prevalence of drug abuse, he urged all sections of society to actively participate in efforts to combat the menace, saying a collective approach was necessary to eliminate it.
He also cautioned against the irresponsible use of mobile phones and social media, stating that excessive engagement with these platforms was affecting the time, priorities and future prospects of young people.
Abdullah stressed the role of parents, teachers and other responsible members of society in guiding youngsters and encouraging them to engage in constructive and productive activities.
Referring to the responsibilities of elected representatives, he said the National Conference legislators had been entrusted with the opportunity to serve the people and must treat it as a responsibility. He said public representatives should listen to people’s grievances and make efforts to address their problems.
Abdullah also expressed concern over the prevailing situation in West Asia, saying the lack of unity and consensus among Muslim countries was adding to the difficulties faced by ordinary people.
He said continuing tensions in the region had disrupted travel and daily life, including the movement of pilgrims travelling to and from Saudi Arabia for Umrah. He noted that journeys which earlier took around six hours were now taking as long as 24 hours due to the prevailing circumstances.
He called for greater unity, mutual understanding and efforts towards peace, saying humanity and compassion were particularly important amid the current global situation.
Meanwhile, Abdullah visited Shivpora in Srinagar to attend a condolence gathering (Isal-e-Sawab) for senior National Conference leader and former MLA Sheikh Ghulam Qadir Pardesi.
Prayers were offered for the departed leader, while tributes were paid to his contributions. Abdullah presented a copy of the Holy Quran to the deceased leader’s son and Lal Chowk MLA Ahsan Pardesi and expressed condolences to the bereaved family.
