Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha of Jammu and Kashmir has issued a stern warning to individuals involved in drug trafficking, regardless of their position in the administration or public life. He emphasized that anyone found supporting or connected to the drug network will face severe legal consequences. Sinha made these remarks during his participation in a ‘padyatra’ (foot march) in the Shopian district of South Kashmir, an event organized as part of the ongoing anti-drug campaign in the region.
Sinha underscored the government’s commitment to eradicating the drug menace, stating that even the slightest trace of involvement within the system would be “mercilessly cut out without hesitation.” He highlighted the growing public resolve to combat drug trafficking, noting that voices across Jammu and Kashmir are demanding strict action against drug smugglers. According to Sinha, the anti-drug campaign, which began 43 days prior, has transformed into a powerful grassroots movement, resonating throughout communities with significant momentum.
As per information available with TahirRihat.com, millions of residents in Jammu and Kashmir are determined to eliminate narcotics-terrorism from what they call “this land of paradise.” Sinha acknowledged that the drug issue is no longer perceived as a remote problem but rather as a direct threat affecting communities at their doorsteps, necessitating a courageous and resolute response.
Sinha stressed the detrimental impact of drugs, which he said diverts young people from pursuing progress and undermines their potential. He stated that terrorist groups exploit the proceeds from drug sales to procure weapons, which are then used to perpetrate violence against ordinary Kashmiris. He added that drug smugglers and narco-terrorists have built their illicit empires by destroying the lives of countless children, and he affirmed that these empires are being dismantled.
The Lieutenant Governor sympathized with parents across Jammu and Kashmir who live in constant fear of their families becoming targets of narco-terrorists. He pledged to eliminate this fear and ensure the safety and security of every household throughout the Union Territory. Sinha also mentioned the formation of over 7,000 women’s committees in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing the administration’s responsibility to empower these committees and facilitate their effective operation.
Providing details on the actions taken against the drug network since the beginning of the campaign last month, Sinha reported that in the preceding 43 days, 797 First Information Reports (FIRs) had been registered, and 894 drug smugglers and peddlers had been imprisoned. Additionally, 59 traffickers have been arrested under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act. Furthermore, 81 properties acquired with illicit funds from drug trafficking have been demolished, and 101 immovable properties have been attached and seized.
Sinha also announced the suspension of 457 driving licenses and the recommendation for the cancellation of passports for 22 smugglers and the registration of 606 vehicles involved in drug-related activities. He added that substantial quantities of drugs have been seized during these operations. Inspections were conducted at 5,641 drug stores, resulting in the suspension or cancellation of licenses for 268 stores and the filing of FIRs against 6 drug stores.
The Lieutenant Governor informed that a comprehensive rehabilitation policy is under development. The aim of this policy is to rehabilitate addicted youth through de-addiction programs and to reintegrate them into mainstream society by providing them with employment and job opportunities. This multifaceted approach underscores the government’s commitment to addressing both the supply and demand sides of the drug problem 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.