District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Srinagar, organized an awareness programme on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and Drug Abuse at Government Boys Higher Secondary School (GBHSS), Nowpora.

The event was held under the leadership of Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority, Shazia Tabassum, under the chairmanship of Principal District and Sessions Judge, Srinagar, Tasleem Arief, and under the supervision of Sub-Judge/Secretary, DLSA Srinagar, Sajad Ur Rehman.
During the programme, Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defence Counsel, DLSA Srinagar, Zeenat addressed the students on the alarming rise of drug abuse among youth. She highlighted how substance abuse not only endangers physical and mental health but also disrupts families and society at large. She urged the students to stay away from drugs, make informed choices, and act as ambassadors of awareness within their peer groups to build a drug-free community.
Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel, DLSA Srinagar, sensitized the students about the provisions and importance of the POCSO Act, emphasizing the legal safeguards available for the protection of children from sexual offences. She explained how the Act ensures a child-friendly approach in reporting, recording of evidence, and speedy trial of cases. She also encouraged students to speak up fearlessly against any form of abuse and to be aware of their legal rights and available support mechanisms.
The programme concluded with an interactive session where students actively