Malappuram, Kerala: The Ma'din Academy campus in Melmuri witnessed an extraordinary spiritual gathering on the 27th night of Ramadan, drawing around 300,000 believers for prayers and blessings. The event also marked the launch of the Ma'din Academy’s Anti-Drug Campaign, a major initiative to combat the rising menace of drug abuse.

Sayyid Ibraheemul Khaleel Al Bukhari, founder and chairman of Ma'din Academy, led the campaign by administering a pledge against drug addiction, uniting the massive crowd in a collective commitment.

"We cannot remain passive while addiction destroys lives and families. Our youth -- our future -- is at risk. It is time for all of us to act," Al-Bukhari stated, as thousands voiced their support.

He also called for a revision of Kerala’s drug control laws, stressing that existing legislation is outdated and ineffective in tackling the crisis.

Key initiatives of the campaign

The anti-drug campaign will implement multiple initiatives, including:

  • Drug awareness programmes for 100,000 students
  • Distribution of drug eradication guidelines to one million families
  • A nationwide network advocating for a drug-free society
  • A free helpline and counselling services for those battling addiction
  • A 1,000-km awareness journey promoting prevention and recovery

Inaugurating the conference, Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar, the Grand Mufti of India, expressed concerns over the increasing violence among youth.

"True faith is a deterrent against violence. Those who live by the principles of peace and justice cannot indulge in immoral behaviours like drug abuse," he said.

The gathering also emphasised the need for strong support systems for individuals struggling with addiction.

Founded in 1997 with just 118 students, Ma'din Academy has grown into a significant educational and charitable movement, now catering to over 33,000 students across 45 institutions. Its Ramadan Prayer and Peace Conference, now in its 29th year, continues to bring thousands together in a shared mission of peace, unity, and social responsibility.