The Islamabad High Court (IHC) took strong action against the rising drug crisis in the capital. Yesterday, Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas directed the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to restructure its anti-drug monitoring committee. Consequently, the HEC must now include officials from the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) and the police. Furthermore, the court demanded a detailed report on measures taken to curb drug use and sales within educational institutions.
Deputy Attorney General Faisal Irfan, ANF prosecutor Rana Zulfiqar, and Pemra’s counsel also attended the proceedings. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training received direct orders to get anti-drug rules approved by the federal government.
HEC Responds to Delivery Rider Allegations
During the hearing, petitioner Advocate Kashif Malik raised serious alarms. He highlighted the case of Anmol Pinki, who recently faced drug-related charges in Karachi. Moreover, he revealed allegations concerning delivery personnel transporting drugs onto campuses. Justice Minhas quickly pointed out his previous warnings about riders smuggling narcotics.
In response, HEC officials assured the court about their current security protocols. Educational institutions have designated specific areas for delivery personnel. Therefore, campus security actively checks anyone entering in this capacity beforehand.
Unfortunately, the drug crisis extends far beyond universities and colleges. Advocate Malik informed the court that 7th and 8th-grade school students now actively consume drugs. Additionally, another counsel disclosed that small grocery stores across Islamabad easily sell these narcotics.
Court Mandates Strict Action & Monitoring
To combat this widespread issue, the judge directed educational authorities to ensure regular internal monitoring. They must also submit compliance reports directly to the court. Simultaneously, the court ordered the Islamabad district administration and the Capital Territory Police to intensify their anti-drug operations and take concrete measures against trafficking.
During the proceedings, Justice Minhas praised DSP Legal Sajid Cheema for his excellent performance in this case. However, the newly appointed Inspector Legal informed the judge about Cheema’s recent transfer to DSP Headquarters. Consequently, the judge criticized this move. He clearly observed that departments should never replace efficiently performing officers.
