Jyotirmath Rises Against Drug Menace: Markets Shut, Massive Protest at Police Station

Jyotirmath (Chamoli): Alarmed by the rapid rise in drug abuse and narcotics trafficking, residents and traders of Jyotirmath launched a strong protest on Friday, bringing the hill town to a standstill. As a mark of protest, all commercial establishments remained closed while hundreds of people took to the streets, demanding strict action against drug peddlers.

The demonstration began at the Inter College crossing, from where protesters marched in a procession to the local police station, raising slogans against the drug trade. Upon reaching the police station, traders and residents staged a sit-in, pressing the administration to curb the growing menace that they say is destroying the town’s social fabric.

Memorandum Submitted, Four Key Demands Raised

Later, a delegation of traders submitted a memorandum to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, addressed to the Superintendent of Police, Chamoli. The memorandum outlined four major demands:

• Strict action against drug sellers and traffickers operating in the town
• Identification and permanent shutdown of drug hotspots
• Regular patrolling and raids near schools, public places, and residential colonies
• Strict enforcement of traffic rules to curb related criminal activities

The memorandum warned that if no concrete action is taken within 15 days, the agitation would be intensified. The document was signed by several prominent members of the traders’ association and local residents.

“Youth Being Ruined by Addiction”

President of the Traders’ Association, Nain Singh Bhandari, said immediate action was essential. “Drug addiction is destroying our youth. If this continues unchecked, the future of the town will be irreparably damaged,” he said.

Social worker Anita Pawar echoed similar concerns, stating that even minors are being seen consuming intoxicants in public places. “Parents are deeply worried. Strong and sustained efforts are needed to stop this,” she said.

Local resident Sumedha Bhatt made serious allegations, claiming that liquor is being sold illegally even at vegetable shops and consumed openly in public places. She also demanded the closure of the town’s liquor outlet.

Police Assure Strict Action

In-charge Inspector of Jyotirmath Kotwali, Devendra Singh Rawat, assured protesters that police action would be intensified. “Patrolling will be increased and continuous raids are being conducted at suspected drug hubs. Drug traffickers will not be spared under any circumstances,” he said.

Tourists Face Inconvenience

The complete market shutdown caused inconvenience to tourists visiting nearby Auli. Tushar Gupta, a tourist from Lucknow, said he and his friends were left hungry as eateries remained closed. “We have been roaming around since morning without food or water,” he said.

Another tourist, Adarsh from Delhi, said the closure affected shopping plans and access to medical facilities. “All medical stores were shut, and we couldn’t even buy basic medicines,” he said.

While the protest highlighted growing public anger against drugs, it also underscored the urgent need for effective enforcement to restore normalcy and protect Jyotirmath’s youth from the clutches of addiction.