A new bill aimed at curbing drug use in educational institutions has been presented in the National Assembly. The Anti-Drug (Amendment) Bill 2020 proposes that admission to higher education institutions be made conditional upon passing a drug test.
According to reports, the bill was presented by Member of the National Assembly Seher Kamran. The bill includes provisions to declare drug use among students a criminal offense, allowing for both educational and legal action to be taken against those who engage in drug use. Additionally, the bill suggests launching awareness campaigns on drug-related issues in schools, colleges, and universities.
Under the proposed legislation, educational institutions would be required to inform the parents of students suspected of drug use. Suspicious students would undergo medical examinations and drug tests, with parental consent, to confirm any drug use.
The bill also calls for modifications to educational curricula to include awareness about the dangers of drugs. Special training will be provided to students to educate them about the harmful effects of substance abuse. The goal of the bill is to help students avoid drug addiction and secure a better future.
Moreover, the bill proposes stringent actions against drug dealers. It also includes provisions for the counseling and rehabilitation of students affected by drugs, emphasizing the shared responsibility of students, parents, and teachers in combating drug abuse.
In a related development, a proposed amendment to the law concerning senior citizens has also been presented in the National Assembly. The amendment includes a 25% discount on travel fares for citizens aged 60 and above and free medical services at both public and private healthcare institutions for elderly citizens.
