Sri Vijaya Puram, April 20: Rising concerns around drug abuse, suicide and mental health among youth were brought into focus during a sensitisation programme held at JNRM College in Sri Vijaya Puram on April 18.
The programme, organised by the Andaman and Nicobar State Legal Services Authority (ANSLSA), centred on awareness, prevention and early intervention related to substance abuse and mental well-being. It brought together members of the judiciary, legal professionals, medical experts and students for a structured discussion on the issue.
Justice Sabyasachi Bhattacharyya, Judge of the High Court at Calcutta and Zonal Judge for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, attended the event along with Justice Smita Das De, also a Judge of the High Court at Calcutta. Both participated in the proceedings, which included awareness sessions and interactions with students.
Before the formal programme began, the visiting judges planted a sapling at the college premises, marking a symbolic gesture linked to environmental responsibility and social awareness.
In the inaugural address, Justice Bhattacharyya highlighted the need for collective efforts in addressing drug use, mental health challenges and suicide risks among young people. The session emphasised awareness as a key tool in prevention and the role of communities in supporting individuals facing such issues.
The programme included a screening of a documentary outlining the activities of the National Legal Services Authority, providing participants with an overview of legal outreach initiatives. This was followed by a session led by senior advocate D.C. Kabir, who spoke on drug prevention and suicide awareness, focusing on risks and preventive approaches.
A separate expert session on mental health was conducted by psychiatrist Pooja Govind from ANIIMS. The discussion underscored the importance of early intervention and maintaining mental well-being, particularly among students and young adults.
An interactive segment formed a key part of the programme, with students engaging directly with judges and resource persons. Participants raised questions and shared their perspectives on issues related to mental health and substance abuse, contributing to an open exchange of views.
The event began with a welcome address by JNRM College Principal Pearl Devdas, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. It was anchored by Rashid Alam, Registrar of the Circuit Bench of the Calcutta High Court and Member Secretary of ANSLSA.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Samrat Roy, Secretary of the District Legal Services Authority, followed by the National Anthem. Organisers noted active participation from students, faculty members and judicial officers throughout the event.
The initiative formed part of broader efforts to promote legal awareness and address social challenges through institutional engagement with educational institutions.
