Bengaluru: Lulu Mall Bengaluru, in collaboration with the Bengaluru City Police, organised the “Beda Bro, Say No to Drugs” awareness rally to spread awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and encourage young people to make healthy life choices. The initiative forms part of Karnataka’s broader campaign to build a drug-free society through public participation and awareness.
Held at Lulu Mall in Rajajinagar, the programme brought together senior police officials, Lulu Group Karnataka representatives, students, employees and members of the public to reinforce the message of saying no to drugs.
Five-kilometre rally spreads awareness
The campaign began with an awareness programme, followed by the flagging off of a 5-kilometre anti-drug rally through the Rajajinagar neighbourhood. Participants carried placards bearing the slogan “Beda Bro” and the message “Your Future is in Your Hands”, while volunteers distributed awareness pamphlets to residents and commuters along the route.
The rally sought to take the anti-drug message beyond the mall premises and directly engage the community, encouraging young people to resist peer pressure and avoid substance abuse.
Police call for community participation
The event was attended by Deputy Commissioner of Police (West Division) Yathish N, Assistant Commissioner of Police Bhoothe Gowda V.S., and Inspector Shankaragowda Basanagowdar, along with senior officials from Lulu Group Karnataka.
Addressing the gathering, DCP Yathish N said the fight against drugs requires the collective efforts of police, educational institutions, families and citizens. He noted that awareness campaigns such as “Beda Bro” help reach young people with positive messages and encourage them to make responsible choices.
Supporting Karnataka’s anti-drug mission
The campaign aligns with the Karnataka government’s recently launched Operation RISE and Beda Bro initiatives, which aim to curb drug abuse through stricter enforcement, awareness programmes and rehabilitation support. The State has set a goal of creating a drug-free Karnataka by 2028 through coordinated efforts involving law enforcement, educational institutions and the public.
Organisers said continued community engagement and awareness are essential to protecting young people from the dangers of drugs and creating safer neighbourhoods.