Sopore, Oct 29 (JKNS): As part of the ongoing public outreach initiatives and celebrations marking the 150th Birth Anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, Sopore Police organized a public meeting at Islamia High School Warpora, Zaingeer, aimed at fostering community engagement and spreading awareness on key social and policing issues.
As per news agency JKNS, The meeting witnessed enthusiastic participation from people across different walks of life, including women, youth, civil society members, and local representatives.
The event commenced with a two-minute silence as a mark of tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, whose vision of national unity and integrity continues to guide the nation. Speakers reflected on his life, achievements, and unmatched contribution to the unification of India.
During the interactive session, participants discussed various social issues, particularly the growing menace of drug abuse, and the need for active public cooperation in curbing it. Police officers addressed public queries and assured that all genuine concerns related to law and order, traffic management, and public safety would be addressed promptly.
Speaking on the occasion, SSP Sopore Iftikhar Talib emphasized that effective policing is rooted in partnership with the people. He said that Sopore Police’s mission goes beyond enforcement, focusing equally on awareness, guidance, and trust-building. He urged youth to stay away from drugs and negative influences and dedicate themselves to education, sports, and constructive pursuits.
“Drug abuse is not confined to any one section of society. From a school student to an elderly person, from a government employee to a laborer, people from every background have been caught,” the SSP said, adding that Sopore Police are making daily deployments to curb the rising trend.
He further stressed the importance of community cooperation in tackling the issue. “Our aim is not to increase arrests but to reduce them. To eradicate this menace completely, police-public partnership is essential,” he said.
The event concluded with a collective reaffirmation of the shared commitment to peace, unity, and community service, honoring Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s enduring ideals of Ekta, Naitikta, and Samarpan.
The programme was graced by SSP Sopore Iftikhar Talib as Chief Guest, along with SHO Sopore Ayaz Geelani and DO Warpora Yusuf Ul Umar.
Trade presidents from Warpora and Botingoo, Lumberdar Botingoo Haji Farooq Ahmad Bhat, Lumberdar Warpora Afroz Ahmad, and Mohd Dilawar from Dangerpora were also present.
Teachers, civil society members, transporters, and social activists actively participated in the event. (JKNS)
