The Angami Students’ Union (ASU) on Saturday issued a public advisory sounding the alarm over what it described as a “growing network of drugs peddlers” targeting educational institutions and a “concerning emergence of students’ abduction” in Nagaland.
Calling for “utmost caution” from students, parents, and the public at large, the Union stated it is “deeply concerned with the increasing reports of drug peddler’s activities and reported abduction cases.” It warned that the disturbing developments “not only jeopardize the security and future of our youth but also threatens the peace and integrity of our society.”
Citing inputs that suggest drug peddlers are attempting to “infiltrate school and colleges environments with the intention of luring young students,” ASU’s advisory stressed the need for immediate action on multiple fronts.
The Union issued a strict warning: “To any individual or groups involved in any activities endangering students: the Union will not hesitate to expose and take firm action against the perpetrators, in accordance with community and legal mechanism.”
The advisory, released “in the interest of public awareness and students protection,” includes specific appeals:
To Students: ASU urged them to “exercise utmost caution and avoid any association or interaction with unknown individuals,” and to “report any suspicious activity to your school authorities, parents or the nearest police station immediately.”
To Parents and Guardians: The Union asked them to be “vigilant about your child’s whereabouts, peer groups and behavioural changes,” and to “maintain open communications and provide necessary guidance on the dangers of drug abuse and abduction.”
To Educational Institutions: ASU called for enhanced campus security and surveillance, and stressed the importance of holding sensitization programs. Schools should “immediately report any suspicious movements or individuals to the law enforcing authorities,” it said.
To the General Public: Citizens were urged to “be vigilant and play an active role in protecting our students,” and to “promptly report unusual or unlawful activities to the Authorities.”
“We earnestly urge all stakeholders to stand in solidarity against these threats and uphold the safety and aspiration of our people,” the Union added.