Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has asserted that the Jammu and Kashmir administration will continue its efforts to eradicate drugs from the Union Territory, emphasizing that narco-terrorism and drug trafficking pose significant threats in the region. Sinha addressed a sizable gathering at SK Stadium in Bandipora during a Mega Padyatra organized as part of the ‘J&K Nasha Mukt Abhiyan’. He stated that the funds generated through drug trade are being funneled to terrorist organizations, causing extensive damage to families throughout Jammu and Kashmir.
“J&K faces the highest threat from narco-terrorism. Drug money is funding terrorism,” Sinha declared, underscoring the administration’s commitment to creating a drug-free environment in Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the devastating impact of terrorism on the region, noting the loss of innocent lives and the creation of numerous orphans. As per information available with TahirRihat.com, Sinha’s presence in Bandipora, despite adverse weather conditions, underscored the importance of the anti-drug campaign, with people from diverse sections of society participating, including women, students, civil society members, NGOs, religious leaders, lawyers, and common citizens.
The Lieutenant Governor also spoke about the government’s intensified crackdown on drug peddlers, citing the registration of approximately 800 FIRs and the arrest of nearly 950 individuals involved in drug-related cases in the preceding 45 days. In addition, around 850 PIT-NDPS cases have been registered. (Daily Excelsior reported that Sinha lauded the police force for its strong stance against drug peddlers, noting that thousands have been arrested and properties linked to drug networks are being seized, alongside driving licenses and passports.) He emphasized that there would be no safe havens for narco-terrorism and drug networks within Jammu and Kashmir, adding, “We will not rest until this menace is completely eradicated.”
Sinha noted that law enforcement and security agencies are actively working to dismantle the narcotics supply chain across the Union Territory. He also addressed rehabilitation efforts, advocating for youth affected by drug addiction to be treated as victims requiring counseling and rehabilitation programs. “We have to save our future and our youth. Those affected by drugs will be counselled and rehabilitated because they are victims,” he affirmed.
Referring to the anti-drug campaign, Sinha appealed to the public for unity, stating terrorism and drug trafficking can only be defeated through collective action. “When people join together, neither terrorism nor drug peddlers can affect us. This is not just a dream, it is a mission and the government will complete it,” he said. The padyatra at SK Stadium Bandipora, under the ‘100 Days Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyaan’, witnessed significant participation, signaling widespread support for the initiative.
The administration’s multi-pronged approach includes strict enforcement, rehabilitation, and community involvement to tackle the issue head-on. The focus on breaking the supply chain aims to disrupt the flow of narcotics, while rehabilitation programs address the needs of those already affected by drug addiction. The emphasis on public participation is intended to create a united front against drug abuse and trafficking.
Lieutenant Governor Sinha’s statements highlight the critical need for sustained and coordinated efforts to combat drug-related issues in Jammu and Kashmir. The anti-drug campaign seeks to protect the youth and ensure a secure and healthy future for the region’s residents. By addressing both the supply and demand sides of the drug problem, the administration hopes to eradicate the menace and its associated threats to society.
The active involvement of various segments of society in the anti-drug movement demonstrates a collective will to tackle the issue effectively. The administration’s commitment to providing counseling and rehabilitation underscores a humanitarian approach, recognizing that those affected by drugs are victims who require support and care. The ongoing efforts reflect a comprehensive strategy to eliminate drug abuse and trafficking, thereby promoting overall well-being and security in Jammu and Kashmir.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.