Bandipora, May 25: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday described narco-terrorism and drug trafficking as one of the gravest challenges facing Jammu and Kashmir and asserted that the administration is committed to eliminating the menace completely from the Union Territory.
Addressing a gathering at SK Stadium in Bandipora during a mega padyatra organised under the ‘J&K Nasha Mukt Abhiyan’, Sinha said proceeds generated through narcotics are being used to fund terror activities, while countless families across the region continue to suffer because of substance abuse.
He said Jammu and Kashmir faces a serious threat from narco-terrorism, adding that terrorism has already devastated many households and orphaned several children over the years. He reiterated that the government’s mission is to build a drug-free and fear-free Jammu and Kashmir.
Despite adverse weather conditions, the Lieutenant Governor travelled to Bandipora and personally led the anti-drug march. He appreciated the participation of women, students, civil society groups, NGOs, religious leaders, lawyers and citizens, saying the campaign has evolved into a people’s movement.
Highlighting the administration’s recent action against narcotics networks, Sinha said nearly 800 FIRs have been registered during the past 45 days, while around 950 individuals involved in drug related activities have been arrested. He added that about 850 PIT-NDPS cases have also been registered during the same period.
The Lieutenant Governor said law enforcement agencies are aggressively targeting drug peddlers and dismantling supply chains operating across the Union Territory. He noted that properties linked to narcotics networks are being attached and strict action, including suspension of driving licences and seizure of passports, is also being taken.
Stressing that there would be no safe space for narco-terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, Sinha said the administration will continue its crackdown until the entire network is uprooted.
He also emphasised the importance of rehabilitation for those affected by addiction, stating that young people trapped in substance abuse should be treated as victims and supported through counselling and rehabilitation programmes.
Calling for collective public participation, the Lieutenant Governor said terrorism and drug trafficking can only be defeated when society stands united against such threats. A large number of people joined the padyatra held under the ongoing ‘100 Days Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyaan’ in Bandipora.
