Bhatkal: In a strong show of solidarity against drug abuse, Bhatkal Police organized an awareness rally on Thursday involving college students as part of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The rally began at the Bhatkal Government Hospital and concluded at the Mini Vidhana Soudha, passing through Shamsuddin Circle. Led by DySP Mahesh, the march saw active participation from students and staff of Shri Guru Vidyadhiraj New English PU College and Shri Jnaaneshwari College of Education.
Participants carried placards promoting drug-free living, drawing public attention along the route.
At a short program held outside the Mini Vidhana Soudha, Dr. Surakshit Shetty, pediatrician at the government hospital, highlighted the severe physical and mental effects of drug abuse on youth and stressed the importance of early intervention through education and counseling.
Other speakers included Prof. Virendra V. Shanbhag, Tahsildar Nagendra Kolashetty, and PSI Naveen Nayak, who also led students in a pledge to lead drug-free lives.
The event was hosted by CPI Divakar, with DySP Mahesh presiding. Several other police officers and educators were present, marking a united stand against drug abuse.