KP Leadership Addresses Law and Order and Drug Rehabilitation Initiatives

PESHAWAR: In a significant meeting held at the Governor House, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Governor Faisal Karim Kundi and Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur discussed pressing issues concerning the province, particularly focusing on law and order. The leaders recognized that maintaining peace is essential for the province's economic growth. They expressed their determination to collaborate in addressing security challenges and securing necessary resources from the federal government to ensure stability.

The dialogue also included plans to promote tourism and other public interest matters. Governor Kundi committed to engaging with the federal government to resolve any issues affecting the provincial administration, emphasizing his role as the province's representative. This meeting coincided with Chief Minister Gandapur's attendance at the oath-taking ceremony of new provincial minister Syed Fakhar Jahan, where he was warmly welcomed by Governor Kundi.

In a related development, Chief Minister Gandapur launched the third phase of the "Drug-Free Peshawar" program, aimed at rehabilitating 2,000 drug addicts. The provincial government has allocated a substantial budget of Rs. 320 million for this initiative. Under this program, individuals struggling with addiction will be transferred to rehabilitation centers, where they will receive quality treatment and support.

To further combat drug abuse, an extensive awareness campaign has been initiated in educational institutions, targeting the youth to educate them about the severe consequences of drug addiction. On Wednesday, a seminar and awareness walk were organized at the University of Peshawar, led by Chief Minister Gandapur, with participation from provincial cabinet members, assembly members, government officials, university heads, faculty, religious scholars, and numerous students.

During the seminar, the Chief Minister reiterated the provincial government's zero-tolerance policy towards drug abuse. He stated that "relevant departments and institutions have been directed to intensify actions against those involved in drug trafficking." He urged authorities to focus on apprehending the "big fish" in drug trafficking, regardless of their influence, emphasizing that drug trafficking is a serious crime deserving of the harshest penalties.

Gandapur highlighted that the ultimate goal of these efforts is to create a drug-free provincial capital and to rehabilitate those affected by addiction, helping them reintegrate into society. He announced the establishment of control rooms in both the Deputy Commissioner’s Office and the Chief Minister’s Secretariat to ensure the effective implementation of the program.

In the previous two phases of the "Drug-Free Peshawar" initiative, 2,400 individuals were rehabilitated, including residents from various provinces and even neighboring Afghanistan. The Chief Minister assured that the program would continue to provide treatment without discrimination and directed divisional commissioners to gather data on drug addicts in their areas for further rehabilitation efforts.

Additionally, Gandapur mentioned ongoing work on the Whistleblower Act to combat corruption, which includes rewarding individuals who provide information about undisclosed properties. He emphasized the importance of public support, stating that the government cannot succeed without the community's involvement. A special portal has been created for citizens to register complaints, ensuring that proper action will be taken to address their concerns.

The collaborative efforts between the provincial government and the community are crucial in tackling the pressing issues of drug addiction and security in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. By fostering a united front, the province can work towards a safer and healthier environment for all its residents. The commitment shown by the leadership in addressing these challenges reflects a hopeful path forward, aiming to transform lives and build a brighter future for the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.