Chief Justice calls child substance abuse a protection issue, not just health

At a lecture titled 'Childhood Beyond Drugs: Protection, Care and Reintegration' in Bihar, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant stressed that drug abuse among children must be viewed through a child protection lens rather than solely as a public health issue. He pointed to a Lancet study indicating that a notable share of Indian teenagers are at moderate to high risk of substance dependence. Kant advocated for a child-sensitive approach that protects physical and mental well-being while preserving the child's sense of self-worth.

He described restoration as creating conditions for children to enjoy education, relationships, play, trust and confidence in a future beyond current difficulties. The remarks aim to influence policy and service delivery for vulnerable youth.