Sheikhgund Declares War on Tobacco: A Community Unites for a Smoke-Free Future

In the serene village of Sheikhgund, located in the Shangus area of South Kashmir, a community-driven initiative has taken root, aiming to eradicate smoking and tobacco use from their lives. This picturesque hamlet, surrounded by lush apple orchards, has made headlines by collectively declaring the sale and consumption of tobacco products an offence, setting a powerful example for neighboring villages. The movement began earlier this month when residents gathered in their local Masjid. This was not merely a gathering but a pledge of unity against smoking, marking a significant turning point in the village’s approach to health and well-being. Grocery store owners committed to removing tobacco products from their shelves, while many residents vowed to quit smoking for good. At the forefront of this initiative is 70-year-old Muhammad Yaqoob Reshi, a preacher at the local Masjid. Reshi emphasizes the importance of this movement, saying, “The youth spearheaded this initiative, and the elders wholeheartedly supported it.” As a small grocery shop owner, Reshi proudly states that he no longer sells cigarettes or tobacco. He believes that profiting from something deemed harmful in their religion is not only unethical but spiritually wrong. “I have been consistently delivering Friday sermons on this critical issue, backed by religious guidance,” he adds, highlighting the intertwining of faith and health in this initiative. Mir Jaffar, a 30-year-old local figure, has emerged as a hero within the community. Jaffar passionately articulates the broader implications of smoking, viewing it as a precursor to more dangerous habits. His determination to seek governmental support underscores the seriousness of their mission. “If shopkeepers are ready to sacrifice their earnings for a greater cause, the government should lend a hand to make this initiative a grand success,” he asserts. The impacts of this movement are already evident. Ghulam Hassan Mir, a 75-year-old former chain smoker, shared his compelling story of transformation. “I smoked cigarettes and hookah for over 40 years, but this initiative gave me the strength to quit. I can feel the difference - it's like breathing life anew,” he reflects, illustrating the profound personal victories that have emerged from this communal effort. Women in the village are equally committed to this cause. Saima Bashir, a 26-year-old resident, stresses the importance of tackling smoking, particularly among educated individuals, to prevent future generations from the risks of drug addiction. “We don't want our generation to be ruined, so we are committed to curbing this menace,” she states, showing that the fight against tobacco is a shared responsibility. The village, home to over 200 households, is now adorned with banners and placards proclaiming slogans like “No to Smoking,” “No to Tobacco,” and “Sheikhgund: A Smoke-Free and Drug-Free Zone.” These messages resonate throughout the community, symbolizing a collective reclamation of their air and future. As the villagers look ahead, they are filled with optimism about the potential to expand their campaign beyond Sheikhgund. Jaffar expresses a clear vision: “We want this message to reach every household and every village.” With their united stance against smoking and tobacco, the village of Sheikhgund not only exemplifies the power of community action but also inspires others to follow suit in the fight for healthier lives.