Drug peddling a challenge, dealing with peddlers strictly: SSP Awantipora

PAMPORE: Police district Awantipora organised a Road Race Event under the civic action programme in the Pampore area on Monday.
Around 100 students from GDC Pampore and other colleges and educational institutions of Pampore and Khrew area participated in the event.
The international blind cricketer Irfan Ahmad Mir and two national footballers also participated in the road race which was flagged off by SSP Awantipora Ajaz Ahmad Zargar, SDPO Pampore Mir Imtiyaz Ahmad along with SHO Pampore Zahoor Ahmad, SHO Khrew Manzoor Ahmad. GDC Pampore officials including Dr Iqbal Malik, Zafer Manzoor Prof. Ashiq Rashid and others were also present.
The road race started from India International Kashmir Saffron Trade Centre (IIKSTC) Dusoo Pampore which culminated at GDC Pampore at a distance of 5 kilometres. Later, a prize distribution function was held at GDC Pampore where SSP Awantipora along with SDPO Pampore, SHO Pampore, SHO Khrew Manzoor Ahmad, GDC Prof Mohammad Iqbal and others awarded trophies, medical and cash prizes to the winners and other participants, GDC Pampore officials and media persons.
Raqib Ahmad from Frestabal Pampore emerged as the winner of the road race event, followed by Rashid Shakeel of Frestabal Pampore and Owais Ahmad who secured second and third positions respectively.
The first 10 winners including international blind cricketer Irfan Ahmad Mir were awarded cash prizes and certificates and other participants were also presented with certificates, SDPO Pampore told Kashmir Reader.
SSP Awantipora Ajaz Ahmad Zargar said that today’s road race is a part of the civic action programme started by Jammu & Kashmir Police, under which youth are being engaged in constructive activities to keep them away from negative habits. He said a cricket tournament is underway in Samboora and Awantipora and another tournament will be organised in Pampore. “We are also exploring other avenues to provide a platform for youth so that they can represent the UT at the national and international levels,” he said.
“Losing or winning doesn’t matter,” he said. “What matters is participation.”
He appreciated the youth for showing a positive response to the initiatives. He also hailed the media for supporting them.
The SSP said that drug peddling is a challenge for society and that J&K Police will create awareness among youth about its hazards and take strict legal action against peddlers.
“The road race gives the message that we should remain away from drug abuse and take part in sports activities to remain fit,” International blind cricketer, Irfan Ahmad Mir told Kashmir Reader. He said that authorities should involve specially-abled persons like him in these events.

BILAL HABIB