SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday said that the campaign against drugs and narco-terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir has transformed into a people’s movement, asserting that the administration will continue its crackdown until drug networks are completely dismantled in the Union Territory.
Addressing an anti-drug awareness programme in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, Sinha said the “Drug-Free Jammu and Kashmir” initiative, launched 55 days ago, is aimed at protecting young people from substance abuse and dismantling networks allegedly involved in financing terrorism through the narcotics trade.
He said drugs not only destroy the future of youth but also serve as a major source of terror financing, enabling anti-national elements to procure arms and sustain violence. He added that such narco-terror networks operate both from across the border and within Jammu and Kashmir.
Describing those involved in drug trafficking as “enemies of society and youth,” the Lieutenant Governor warned that strict action against them would continue and be intensified further.
Sinha said the administration is following a three-pronged strategy focused on disrupting supply chains, raising public awareness, and rehabilitating individuals affected by addiction. He added that security forces, including the Jammu and Kashmir Police, are actively dismantling drug networks, arresting traffickers, and attaching properties acquired through illegal means. Structures raised on encroached government land using proceeds of crime are also being demolished, he said.
He appreciated the Ganderbal district administration and police for conducting extensive outreach programmes across villages and panchayats to sensitise people about the dangers of drug abuse.
On rehabilitation measures, Sinha said the government is committed to ensuring treatment, counselling and employment opportunities for affected individuals to help them reintegrate into society with dignity and compassion.
Providing details of enforcement action over the past 55 days, he said 1,036 FIRs have been registered and 1,128 drug traffickers arrested. He added that 63 individuals have been booked under the Public Safety Act, more than 100 properties attached, and over 700 driving licences cancelled.
He further said proposals have been initiated for cancellation of vehicle registrations and passports of 130 major drug smugglers, with additional measures underway.
Seeking public support for the ongoing crackdown, the Lieutenant Governor said there was overwhelming backing for stricter action against drug traffickers during the programme.
Reaffirming the administration’s resolve, Sinha said the drive would continue until drug smugglers and narco-terror networks are completely eradicated from Jammu and Kashmir, adding that every effort would be made to safeguard future generations from the scourge of drugs.
