Anti-Drug Hunger Strike – Haryana (2019)

Introduction

In September 2019, Praaveen Kumar Singh launched an indefinite hunger strike in Fatehabad, Haryana, to protest the unchecked rise of drug addiction in the region — particularly in the districts of Sirsa and Fatehabad. Deeply disturbed by its impact on youth and families, he demanded urgent government intervention.

Background & Reason

Narcotics abuse had reached crisis levels in parts of northern Haryana, devastating lives — especially among school-aged youth. Despite the growing scale, government response remained slow and inconsistent. For Praaveen, the silence around addiction was more dangerous than the drugs themselves.

Key Actions by Praaveen Kumar Singh

Initiated an indefinite hunger strike to highlight the drug crisis and force public dialogue.
Demanded that Sirsa and Fatehabad be declared “Special Drug-Affected Zones” requiring targeted state and central interventions.
Called for the establishment of a 100-bed government-run de-addiction hospital to provide accessible rehabilitation services.
Urged stronger enforcement of the NDPS Act to curb drug trafficking and hold suppliers accountable.
Positioned the crisis as a matter of youth protection, public health, and moral responsibility.

Impact & Outcome

The protest attracted attention from local political leaders, civil society organizations, and regional media outlets.
Sparked public conversations around addiction, rehabilitation, and institutional accountability.
Pressured officials to acknowledge the scale of the crisis and commit to deeper policy evaluation.
Reinforced Praaveen’s ongoing commitment to youth welfare and systemic reform, especially in under-served regions.

Why It Matters

Addiction isn’t just a personal tragedy — it’s a social failure. Praaveen’s hunger strike reframed the drug crisis as a structural issue, not a moral one. His protest demanded solutions rooted in care, not criminalization — and accountability, not apathy.

Media Article

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