The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has directed the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to submit a detailed report regarding steps being taken by universities to eliminate drugs from educational institutions.
Justice Inam Amin Minhas issued the directions during a hearing related to growing concerns over drug use among students. The court emphasized the need for stronger Anti-Drug measures in universities and schools across the country.
During the proceedings, the court instructed the Ministry of Education to seek federal government approval for rules related to drug prevention in educational institutions. The judge also ordered HEC to include the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) and police officials in a monitoring committee to strengthen enforcement efforts.
The hearing also included discussion about the Anmol Pinky case. Petitioner’s lawyer Kashif Malik informed the court that delivery riders and workers in Karachi had allegedly been involved in drug distribution activities.
Justice Minhas remarked that he had earlier raised concerns about drugs being transported through delivery personnel. He stressed the importance of stricter checks and monitoring systems.
HEC officials informed the court that designated areas for delivery riders had already been established in universities. They added that security checks are being conducted for individuals entering educational campuses.
The court directed authorities to ensure regular monitoring in educational institutions and strengthen ongoing Anti-Drug campaigns. The Islamabad district administration and police were also instructed to take effective action against drug-related activities.
Lawyers during the hearing expressed concern that drug use is no longer limited to universities. They said school students, including children studying in seventh and eighth grades, are also being affected.
Advocate Rafi informed the court that drugs are easily available even in small grocery shops in Islamabad. The remarks raised further concerns about the growing spread of narcotics among young people.
Justice Minhas also noted that officers performing effectively in the Anti-Drug campaign are sometimes transferred from their positions. According to the judge, such transfers may weaken enforcement and disrupt ongoing operations.
The court additionally instructed media organizations to run awareness campaigns during prime-time broadcasts to educate the public about the dangers of drug use. A report has also been sought from the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) regarding awareness initiatives.
The Islamabad High Court later adjourned the hearing until the last week of June. The court requested monitoring reports from HEC, police, and district administration officials regarding progress on anti-drug measures in educational institutions.
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Authorities are expected to submit updates on preventive actions, monitoring systems, and awareness efforts during the next hearing.
