SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday participated in the ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Padyatra’ in Shopian, where people from diverse sections of society collectively pledged to eradicate drug trafficking and narco-terrorism from the Union Territory.
Addressing a large gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said the expanding public mobilisation against drugs signals the start of a new phase in the fight against narcotics and terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that opposition to drug abuse is now emerging from towns, villages, and local communities, describing it as a growing mass movement that began 43 days ago in Jammu and has since spread across the Union Territory.
He stated that people across Jammu and Kashmir are united in their resolve to eliminate narcotics-related terrorism from the region, adding that society has now recognised drug abuse as a direct threat to future generations and social stability.
Highlighting concerns over drug addiction, Sinha said narcotics are derailing youth from development and progress, while terror networks are allegedly using drug proceeds to fund weapons and violence.
Issuing a stern warning, the Lieutenant Governor said that any government official or public representative found involved in or supporting drug networks would face strict legal action. He further stated that even minimal involvement in the drug trade within the system would be dealt with firmly.
He said drug traffickers have created illegal wealth by destroying young lives, adding that the administration is intensifying efforts to dismantle such networks completely. Describing each drug transaction as harmful to society, he said young people remain the most affected in areas where trafficking is prevalent.
Sinha said thousands of families in Jammu and Kashmir continue to live under the shadow of the drug menace and stressed the need to ensure a safe and drug-free environment across the region.
Sharing details of the ongoing campaign, the Lieutenant Governor said over 7,000 women’s committees have been formed across the Union Territory to strengthen community awareness and participation in anti-drug efforts.
He said that during the last 43 days, 797 FIRs have been registered and 894 drug peddlers and smugglers arrested. He added that 59 traffickers have been booked under PIT-NDPS provisions, while 81 illegally acquired properties linked to drug money have been demolished.
According to him, 101 immovable properties have been attached and assets worth crores seized in connection with narcotics cases. In addition, 457 driving licences have been suspended, recommendations made for cancellation of passports of 22 individuals, and cancellation of registration of 606 vehicles linked to drug trafficking has been proposed.
The Lieutenant Governor further informed that over 5,641 medical stores were inspected during the drive, leading to suspension or cancellation of licences of 268 pharmacies, while FIRs were lodged against six establishments.
He also said the administration is working on a comprehensive rehabilitation policy aimed at supporting affected youth through de-addiction measures and helping them reintegrate into society through employment and livelihood opportunities.
