Beerwah, August 8: Grand Mufti of Jammu and Kashmir, Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam, on Friday called for a collective effort to combat drug abuse, moral decline and other social challenges, stressing that protecting the moral fabric of society is a shared responsibility.

Addressing the Friday congregation at Jamia Masjid Beerwah in central Kashmir's Budgam district, the Grand Mufti said religious scholars, families, educational institutions and civil society must work together to address the growing social issues affecting the younger generation. He said remaining silent in the face of such challenges would amount to neglecting one's responsibility towards society.

Referring to his earlier remarks concerning the alleged sale of prohibited meat (pork) in Kashmir, Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam said he had received fresh reports alleging that such products were still being sold at a franchise outlet in the Lal Bazar area of Srinagar.

He urged the concerned authorities to verify the allegations and take appropriate legal action if any violation of the law is found.

The Grand Mufti said his statements were motivated by public concern and reiterated that issues affecting the moral and social well-being of society should be addressed impartially and in accordance with the law.