Drug Abuse, Gambling and Immorality Pose Serious Threat to Society: Shahar Qazi Dehradun
Mufti Hashim Ahmad Qasmi urges people to follow Islamic teachings and protect society from social evils.
Dehradun: Shahar Qazi Mufti Hashim Ahmad Qasmi expressed concern over the growing influence of social evils such as drug abuse, gambling and immoral conduct, urging people to stay away from these harmful practices. In his address before Friday prayers, he said that such evils not only ruin individual lives but also damage family well-being, the future of children and the moral values of society.
Mufti Qasmi said that drug addiction weakens a person’s ability to think clearly and make sound decisions. It also causes serious financial difficulties, as a significant portion of a person’s earnings may be spent on addiction. This often leads to domestic disputes, financial instability and a negative impact on children’s upbringing. In many cases, addiction causes individuals to neglect their responsibilities towards their parents, spouses and children.
He also expressed concern over gambling and betting, saying that these practices encourage people to seek money without honest hard work. As a result, many individuals fall into debt and lose their savings, pushing their families into financial distress. The desire for easy money can lead people towards harmful activities, increasing the risk of crime and family disputes.
The Shahar Qazi also highlighted the importance of moral values, modesty, mutual respect and the dignity of family relationships. He said that when these values begin to weaken, trust within families and a sense of social responsibility are also affected. Islam teaches both men and women to maintain dignity, exercise self-restraint and lead their lives with respect and responsibility towards others.
Referring to Islamic teachings, Mufti Qasmi said that the Holy Quran clearly instructs believers to avoid intoxicants and gambling. Surah Al-Ma’idah, verse 90, identifies intoxicants and gambling among practices that believers are commanded to avoid. Similarly, Surah Al-Isra, verse 32, warns against even approaching adultery. These teachings, he explained, are intended to protect individual character, family life and the wider community.
He stressed that improving society requires more than pointing out the mistakes of others; every individual must also work towards improving their own conduct. Parents should ensure the proper upbringing of their children, teach them the difference between right and wrong, and guide them in the responsible use of mobile phones and the internet.
Mufti Qasmi also urged young people to stay away from bad company and use their time, energy and abilities for education, honest work and constructive activities. He said that honesty, good character and responsible behaviour are essential for building a peaceful and progressive society.
Concluding his address, he appealed to people to protect themselves from drug abuse, gambling and immoral conduct, and to encourage others to do the same through kindness, understanding and good behaviour. He said that the progress of society depends not only on economic development but also on good character, strong families, mutual respect and sound moral values. Following Islamic teachings, he added, can make a meaningful contribution towards building a safer, more peaceful and better society.
