Why Did Thousands Join the Anti-Drug Walk Led by Chennithala?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Massive turnout signifies community solidarity.
- Grassroots activism is crucial in the fight against drugs.
- Focused on protecting youth from addiction.
- Highlighting the need for government action alongside community efforts.
- Ramesh Chennithala’s leadership is pivotal in this campaign.
Malappuram, Sep 9 (NationPress) A public initiative titled 'Walk Against Drugs' took place on Tuesday, aimed at combating narcotic issues, led by Ramesh Chennithala, a member of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) and a prominent legislator. This event, arranged under the banner of Proud Kerala, drew an overwhelming turnout from various segments of society, transcending social, political, and cultural boundaries.
The rally commenced from the Collector’s Bungalow, with participants arriving from dawn to partake in the anti-drug march.
A diverse crowd, including artists, students, cultural leaders, women, social activists, and members of voluntary organizations, marched in solidarity, delivering a powerful message against substance abuse in the state.
The march was inaugurated by P.K. Kunhalikutty, a senior legislator from the Indian Union Muslim League and former minister, who called for community involvement in the battle against drugs.
“Drugs are threatening our communities. It’s crucial for our nation to awaken, with residents of villages and cities taking action to resist. This is a fight to protect our homes and neighborhoods,” he emphasized.
As the procession advanced toward Kodappadi junction, accompanied by traditional percussion music, Chennithala led the participants in an anti-drug pledge.
In his address, he proclaimed: “The fight must initiate in our households and streets. When governmental actions falter, it falls upon the people to safeguard themselves. Our determination will remain until every trace of drugs is eradicated from Kerala. Our youth should contribute to nation-building, not fall victim to addiction.”
He cautioned that Kerala must avoid becoming “another Colombia,” referring to the escalating violence linked with narcotics.
“Every murder in areas like Venjaramoodu and Thamarassery is associated with drugs. International drug syndicates have tightened their hold on Kerala, and we are resolute in leading the charge against it,” he stated.
This rally in Malappuram was the seventh walkathon organized under the Proud Kerala initiative, which has previously gained momentum in Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, and Kasaragod.
Chennithala has consistently been a leading figure in the anti-drug campaign, both in the Assembly and beyond.