By Tenzin Monlam
DHARAMSHALA, June 27: Kunphen, a Tibetan NGO, in association with the Department of Health and Dharamshala Tibetan Settlement Office today organized an awareness campaign against substance abuse at main square of McLeod Ganj.
“I urge everyone to contribute in eliminating and reducing the substance abuse in our Tibetan society. It is not just the responsibility of the individual but also the responsibility of the family members and society to show support to those recovering,” Dawa Rinchen, Dharamshala Tibetan Settlement Officer said.
Kunchok Palden, currently recovering under the care of Kunphen, shared that alcoholism had ruined his life and separated from family. “I do regret for not realizing that alcohol was ruining my life. However, it has been over two months since I have moved under the care of Kunphen and I am hopeful for my recovery.”
Kunchok who came from Nepal said that he had the chance of visiting a few schools to share his experience.
The NGO which provides programs focusing on treatment and care for alcohol and drug abuse hosted an event yesterday to mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Health Minister (Kalon) Choekyong Wangchuk attended the event as the chief guest. Also present were Tibetan parliamentarians and representatives of various NGOs. Dawa Tsering, Director of Kunphen, said the event was held to let the drug users feel as part of the community and not an outcast. “It is common knowledge that there are drug peddlers and users in Dharamshala. So, through this initiative, we want to send them a message that it needs to stop and we are continuing our fight against substance abuse.”
