The Hon. Rajeevan Jeyachandramoorthy

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees, I move the following Adjournment Motion:

¶ 02 “I move this Adjournment Motion to draw the urgent attention of the House to a serious and alarming issue affecting the Jaffna District, particularly among the youth. The rising problems of drug addiction, illegal consumption, drug smuggling, and gang violence have escalated to critical levels, causing immense harm to our society.

¶ 03 The people of Jaffna, once known for their strong community bonds, are now grappling with severe social and economic instability, mainly due to the widespread abuse of narcotics and the rise of criminal gangs. This escalating situation has had a detrimental effect on the security and well-being of our citizens, particularly women, children and youth in the area.

¶ 04 Key issues of concern: the situation in Jaffna is severely impacted by rising drug addiction, especially among the youth, with heroin and other illicit substances being consumed widely. This has led to a spike in criminal activities as addicted individuals turn to crime for support, while the lack of rehabilitation centres worsens the issue. Jaffna has also become a hotspot for drug smuggling, fueling gang violence and criminal activities. The increase in gang violence, driven by territorial disputes and drug trafficking, has led to loss of lives and destruction of property. Furthermore, the rise in drug addiction has caused a surge in theft, robbery and violent crimes compromising public safety. Women, girls and schoolchildren are particularly vulnerable, facing harassment, robbery and fear on their way to school due to the presence of gangs and drug addicts in the community.”

¶ 05 Madam, I rise today to bring urgent attention to a critical issue that is affecting our youth, especially in the Jaffna District in the Northern Province and the Eastern Province. The growing problems of drug addiction, illegal consumption, drug smuggling and gang violence have reached alarming levels and are causing immense harm to our society.

¶ 06 Jaffna, once known for its strong community values, is now struggling with social and economic instability. The widespread abuse caused by narcotics and the rise of criminal gangs are having a devastating impact on the security and well-being of our citizens, particularly women, children and youth.

¶ 07 The key issues affecting Jaffna are as follows: 1. Drug addiction: Rising drug addiction, especially among youth, is leading to criminal activities, as individuals turn to crime to support their addiction. 2. Lack of rehabilitation centres: The shortage of rehabilitation centres is worsening the problem, leaving many individuals without proper treatment and support. 3. Drug smuggling and gang violence: Jaffna has become a hub for drug smuggling, fueling gang violence over territory and control, resulting in deaths and property destruction. 4. Crime and public safety: Increased drug addiction has caused a rise in theft, robbery and violent crimes, endangering public safety, particularly for women, girls and schoolchildren who face harassment and fear while travelling.

¶ 08 Therefore, immediate action is needed to address these issues, including investing in rehabilitation programmes, strengthening law enforcement and building community support systems to protect youth, women and children.

¶ 09 I urge that a strong, long-term mechanism be established to coordinate and continuously monitor these issues, including a committee comprising the Provincial Governor, District Development Committee Chair, District Secretary, Police and grassroots leaders, to ensure prompt action. Through such a committee, activities must be reviewed and streamlined, and drug distribution and use must be curbed through specialized Police, armed forces and officials.