SRINAGAR: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday launched the ‘Drug-Free JK Campaign’ in Reasi, calling for a united people’s movement involving communities, institutions, and individuals to combat the growing threat of drug abuse, which he said is weakening the social fabric.
The Lt Governor said that in the past 12 days of intensified drive across the Union Territory, coordinated action has led to multiple arrests of drug smugglers in the Jammu division between April 11 and April 22. Narcotics worth nearly Rs 3 crore have been seized, while movable and immovable properties valued at around Rs 1 crore have been attached.
He added that properties of several drug smugglers have been demolished, 187 driving licences and four vehicle registrations have been cancelled, and financial investigations have been initiated against 48 drug peddlers. In addition, 15 drug store licences have been cancelled following inspections of pharmacies and chemist shops. Drug users have been referred to de-addiction and rehabilitation centres, with counselling support also being extended.
Sinha said 1,947 women committees have been constituted across districts in Jammu division since April 11, describing women as the “moral backbone” of society in the fight against drugs.
Stressing the need for a sustained public movement, he said the campaign must begin from homes, schools, and local communities through open dialogue and collective awareness. He warned that drug traffickers are under close surveillance and assured that those identified will be tracked and brought to justice.
The Lt Governor also directed enforcement agencies to strengthen security checks around educational institutions and vulnerable areas, stating that those involved in drug trafficking would face strict legal action.
He further said drug trafficking networks often operate in coordination with other serious crimes and called for dismantling their entire financial and operational chains. He urged NGOs, social workers, spiritual leaders, and educators to actively participate in the campaign to ensure its success.
Sinha said the initiative aims to break the long-standing silence around drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir and transform it into a sustained, society-wide movement for a “Nasha Mukt JK.”
