Acharya Tulsi
The culture that is uniformly prevalent in the metropolises, cities, townships and villages has been described as the "drug culture." Who are the perpetrators of this culture? When were the drugs first consumed? Who are the people promoting that culture? Who are the people to first give thought to its consequences? How can this practice be checked? These are some questions that eagerly await answers. In this context, serious research and widespread debate are expected. Otherwise, this female cobra of intoxication can create a crisis of human existence because of its fast spreading venomous effect.
How does one get addicted to intoxication? Thinkers have different views on this subject. Some people take to consuming intoxicating substances to find an escape from anxiety, fatigue, and worries. Some people get intoxicated to face conflicts. Some people are trapped in the habit of intoxication to be considered fit, healthy and modern. There are also some people, who see others smoking and drinking. Their curiosity is aroused and they are swept off their feet. Some people manufacture these things which are professionally so attractive that the consumers cannot help taking to them.
Some people out of respect for their companions or under their pressure become victims of intoxication. There can be many other reasons as well. Whatever the reason may be, once a person becomes addicted to intoxication, he becomes helpless against it. Then, despite his efforts, he finds it difficult to free himself from that habit.
In ancient times, people used to drink somaras and smoke hukkah. On that basis, it is being said today that the culture of intoxication has its links with ancient times. A slight push is enough for a falling man. For the people who are feeble-minded, this small thing is a matter of great support But merely by saying that, it is not possible for them to save themselves from the evil intoxication.
Intoxication is one big reason at the root of countless distortions that make inroads into the life of individual, family, society and the nation. If man is presented with the statistics of the harm intoxication does at the economical, physical, psychological and emotional levels, they can be an eye opener for him.
Is it possible to stop consumption of liquor? Is it possible to control smoking? There is a chance of success if one takes such a skeptical attitude. The first formula for success is the firm resolve. The second is the search for effective way to act according to that resolve. Some people demand a ban on the production and consumption of intoxication substances. Some people want such lessons to be included in the school syllabus in which the evil effects of the consumption of intoxicating substances are effectively shown. Some people talk of changing the atmosphere and mental attitude by carrying on propaganda through the electronic media. Some people believe that new alternatives against tobacco cultivation and new avenues of work for people working in bidi industry should be provided.
It seems to me that all these things have been said from different points of view, but their objective is the same. Under these circumstances, is it possible for the people and organizations subscribing to the above mentioned views to get together and prepare a one-point program and also get the cooperation of the World Health Organization? If this can be done, it seems to me that it would facilitate the attempts to weaken the spread of the drug culture, which is making deep inroads.
