TIRUCHY: Cautioning that drug abuse and its indirect glorification in cinema and popular culture could devastate the future of young people, Chief Minister M K Stalin on Friday said the fight against narcotics should become a collective social responsibility. Flagging off the ‘Equality March’ of MDMK founder Vaiko in Tiruchy, a city he described as a historic crucible of the Dravidian movement, Stalin also warned against the “more dangerous intoxication of divisive religious politics.”
“Glorifying intoxication in creative works can destroy an entire generation. Highlighting the ill-effects of drugs is necessary,” Stalin said and exhorted artistes and filmmakers to act with social responsibility. He also urged the centre to prevent entry of drugs through ports.
Detailing the state’s crackdown on narcotics, the CM said that Tamil Nadu police, in coordination with central agencies and neighbouring states, had seized over one lakh narcotic tablets in the past few months from Tiruvallur, Vellore and Ranipet districts. “Those involved in these cases have links across states like Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Haryana, and even international networks involving nationals from Nigeria and Senegal,” he said, underlining the scale of organised drug-trafficking. “It’s a big network. Both states and the centre should take coordinated steps to eliminate drugs,” he said.
While enforcement has yielded results, the CM pointed out that rehabilitation and social intervention are equally crucial. “Addiction can be overcome only when those affected recognise the harm and are supported by families and society,” he said, calling on parents, teachers and social media influencers to actively guide youth away from substance abuse and the lure of easy money through online platforms.
Referring to the recent incidents of attacks by religious fundamentalists on Christmas related things, Stalin said that certain union ministers and leaders in positions of power are indulging in hate speech that fuels caste and religious polarisation, creating fear among minorities and marginalised communities.
Praising Vaiko’s stamina and ideological commitment at 82, the chief minister, however, appealed to him to safeguard his health. “Your ideals are larger than this march. Your well-being matters to all of us,” he said, adding that the responsibility of carrying the movement forward rested with younger cadres.
MDMK general secretary Vaiko’s 11-day padayatra, which began from Tiruchy on January 2, will reach Madurai on January 12, covering over 160km via Viralimalai and Melur.