ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has directed strict monitoring in educational institutions to prevent drug use among students, suggesting even lunch boxes should be checked to ensure no harmful items are brought in.
During the hearing on a petition filed by the private organization Lucky Foundation, Justice Raja Inam Amin Minhas expressed concern over the growing drug problem in schools.
The court ordered the Ministry of Interior, Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), and Islamabad Police to submit a detailed progress report from January to September 2025 within two weeks.
The police presented a report covering January to April 22, 2025. According to the report, 255 kilograms of heroin and 126 kilograms of hashish were seized from different areas of Islamabad. Police registered 689 cases and arrested 709 suspects during this period.
Interior Ministry officials informed the court that an awareness campaign had been launched in schools following earlier court orders.
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However, Justice Raja Inam Amin Minhas remarked that awareness alone is not enough, stressing the need for effective monitoring. He said, “Lunch boxes must also be checked to ensure nothing harmful is brought from outside.”
The court observed that mere slogans against drugs are not sufficient, and practical steps are necessary. Justice Minhas emphasized that Station House Officers (SHOs) must actively monitor their areas rather than taking action only when a petition is filed.
A representative of the Private Schools Association, PEIRA, informed the court that directions had been issued to private schools to take strict measures against drugs.
The court adjourned the hearing for two weeks and directed all concerned authorities to submit updated progress reports in the next session.
