Drugs: A curse on the urban youth
Youth is considered to be the foundation of any country. It is the youngsters who shape the future of a country. But unfortunately, a large number of youngsters between the ages of 18 to 25 are drug addicts. Popular drugs such as cocaine, heroin, opium etc. are only a few of the many harmful drugs found in the world. Drugs are used in various fields like for medicinal use. Drugs as quinine are beneficial if used properly but the problem is that a large number of youngsters around the world are addicted to harmful drugs like heroin and cocaine. These drugs affect the overall physical and mental development of a person. These drugs make a person hollow from inside and also decrease the immunity of a body to resist against diseases.
Many countries around the world have prohibited the use of drugs except for some medical purposes, but the youngsters are still getting access to these drugs very easily. It is because of the fact that the drug related laws have not been implemented and enforced properly in many countries. There are different forms of drugs used by the youngsters these days. The developing nations like India, Thailand, and Singapore etc. are the prime manufacturers and cultivators of drugs along with many African countries like Nigeria, Angola, Mozambique and Kenya. Cigarette is the most popular and best selling drug among the urban youth today.
Almost all the countries round the world have a drug prohibition law like in India the law against illegal use of drugs is called the NDPS act(Narcotics and psychotropic substances act) which prohibits the illegal usage, cultivation, manufacture, storage etc. likewise in U.S.A. Drug possession is the crime of having one or more illegal drugs in one’s possession, either for personal use, distribution, sale or otherwise. Illegal drugs fall into different categories and sentences vary depending on the amount, type of drug, circumstances, and jurisdiction.
In the U.S., the penalty for illegal drug possession and sale can vary from a small fine to a prison sentence. In some states, marijuana possession is considered to be a petty offense, with the penalty being comparable to that of a speeding violation. In some municipalities, possessing a small quantity of marijuana in one’s own home is not punishable at all. Generally, however, drug possession is an arrest able offense, although first-time offenders rarely serve jail time. Federal law makes even possession of soft drugs, such as cannabis, illegal, though some local governments have laws contradicting federal laws.
This war against drugs cannot be won until and unless strong and proper laws are implemented and enforced. People need to be educated and should be made aware of the harmful effects of drugs. The addicted youngsters should be encouraged and motivated to stop the use of drugs through counseling sessions, supervision by parents etc. Such small steps can act as a beginning in this fight against drug abuse. A wise man has rightly said “THE FATE OF THE EMPIRES DEPENDS UPON THE YOUTH”.
