"It is being observed that notorious elements induce drug addiction in children and use them for vested interests," Abdullah said at a function organised by National Commission for Protection of Child Rights to observe Children's day at Sumbal, 25 km from here, in Bandipora district of north Kashmir.
He said drug peddling was the "highest crime against humanity" and called for unified approach against it.
"Religious, political, social and non-governmental organisations should jointly work to eradicate this evil and save the future of the state from falling prey to the designs of unscrupulous elements," the chief minister said.
He said the government has enhanced its vigil over the misuse of drugs and measures have been taken to rehabilitate and reform the drug addicts. However, he said it is also the duty of the people to positively extend their support in this regard.
"Children in Jammu and Kashmir have suffered most during the period of militancy. Their education, health and social fabric has got tarnished and they had to live in an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty," he said, adding, this has put them under stress and spoiled their process of development.
He said the measures put in place by the government have brought substantial improvement in the situation, but the march towards achieving the final goal in this direction has to be carried on with commitment. (MORE)
