Sikkim Judicial Academy hosts programme on mental health and drug addiction prevention
During his address, Chief Justice Biswanath Somadder highlighted the complexity of suicide laws, stressing the need for a balanced approach between decriminalization and accountability.
LOCAL
The Sikkim Judicial Academy (SJA), in collaboration with the Sikkim State Legal Services Authority (SSLSA), organized a one-day orientation programme on “Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Drug Addiction: Prevention and Intervention” at the Sikkim Judicial Academy, Gangtok. The event aimed to raise awareness among officers of the District Judiciary, government stakeholders, advocates, and students about the growing concerns of mental health disorders and substance abuse in Sikkim.
The programme was held under the patronage of Hon’ble Mr. Justice Biswanath Somadder, Chief Justice, High Court of Sikkim and Patron-In-Chief of SJA and SSLSA. Hon’ble Mr. Justice Bhaskar Raj Pradhan, Judge, High Court of Sikkim and Chairperson/Judge-In-Charge, SJA, presided over the event.
Dr. Satyajit Ash, Consulting Psychiatrist from Kolkata, and Professor Sujit Sarkhel, Head of the Institute of Psychiatry, Kolkata, were the key resource persons, providing insights into the challenges of suicide prevention, substance abuse, and the role of media and society in addressing these issues.
During his address, Chief Justice Biswanath Somadder highlighted the complexity of suicide laws, stressing the need for a balanced approach between decriminalization and accountability. He also pointed out the lack of responsible reporting of suicides in Sikkim’s media, urging journalists to adhere to ethical guidelines.
The resource persons emphasized the alarming rate of suicides in Sikkim, stating that the state has the highest suicide rate in India. They provided insights on suicide first-aid techniques, such as social engagement, professional intervention, and distraction strategies.
The programme also focused on substance abuse, its impact on brain function, and factors contributing to addiction, including family conflicts, peer influence, and low self-esteem. Experts stressed that early identification of warning signs is critical in preventing both suicide and drug addiction.