Delegation from Lotkoh urges DC to link holding of Dhola Ishtok with NOC.
Chitral, Oct 27, 2025: A representative delegation from all union councils of Lotkoh at a meeting with the deputy commissioner Lower Chitral expressed deep concern over the rising use of alcohol and drugs at night-time musical gatherings, locally known as “Dhola Ishtok.”
The delegation led by Rehman Khan, President of Ismaili Council, and renowned religious scholar Maulana Abdul Rehman, proposed that authorities allow all night-time music events or Dhola Ishtok celebrations only after obtaining prior approval from the deputy commissioner’s office.
They also urged the administration to ensure the presence of police officers along with respected local elders at these events to eliminate drug and alcohol use completely.
The representatives warned that the spread of intoxicants and immoral practices had become a serious social menace, undermining the community’s moral fabric and threatening the younger generation. They called on the authorities to take immediate, strict action to protect societal values and safeguard youth from destructive influences.
In response, Deputy Commissioner Rao Hashim Azeem assigned the additional deputy commissioner to take prompt action. The DC thanked the delegation for highlighting the issue and promised to send an official letter to the District Police Officer the same day, instructing necessary measures.
Maulana Abdul Rehman emphasized that authorities should enforce these restrictions not only in Lotkoh but across the entire district to tackle the root causes of moral decline effectively.
The delegation established a 12-member committee in Lotkoh to monitor night-time musical events and coordinate with authorities to ensure full implementation of the proposed measures.
The delegation included Maulana Abdul Rehman, Rehman Khan, former nazims Shakoor Muhammad and Nawab Khan, VC chairmen Noroz Khan, Syed Ghani, Sher Faraz, Munawar, Ijaz Ahmad, and several other local representatives.
Social activist Advocate Waqas Ahmad joined the delegation upon special invitation, providing legal and social guidance on addressing the issue.
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Drug addiction becoming a major social evil in Chitral.