SWABI: People from different walks of life, including political, social activists and local government members, here on Tuesday called for eradicating the use of ice drug among the youth, particularly students.

They made the demand at a khuli kachehry (open forum) organised by district police officer Sohail Khalid.

The participants also sought removal of blockades from the hospital road and encroachments from the Karnel Sher Khan Chowk.

Police officials said the main objective of the forum was to ensure close cooperation and coordination between the people and police to ensure peace in the society.

Speaking on the occasion, woman councillor Shafgat Rani said she had always raised voice for the victimised women, and appreci-ated the holding of the open forum, where women was also given a chance to speal( about their problems.

Perhaps this was the first time that a woman councillor participated in such a gathering. `I will continue to work for women rights, and appeal to all women councillors to participate in such forums,` she said.

The participants raised various issues and social evils in the society, but majority of them spoke against the increasing number of musical shows where transgender individuals performed dance, which continued till late night. They said the youngsters were greatly attracted tothe events.

Some participants said that elders should ensure that no musical show, featuring transgender persons was held in their respective areas. Correspondent