Srinagar- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday launched a sweeping public campaign against drug abuse and narco-terrorism in Srinagar, calling for a united societal response to what he described as a “grave threat to internal security and the future of youth.”
Addressing a large gathering at TRC Football Ground, the Lieutenant Governor also led a two-kilometre padyatra in which thousands of people participated, signalling what he termed a “people’s movement” to eradicate drugs from the Union Territory.
“Every step matters, every effort counts. Together, let us envision a Jammu Kashmir where no child is lost to drugs, no family is broken by addiction,” Sinha said, urging citizens across communities to commit to a drug-free future.
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Public mobilisation and emotional appeal
Highlighting the human cost of addiction, Sinha said the fight against substance abuse was not merely administrative but deeply personal for families across the region.
“It is the cry of every mother who has seen her child consumed by addiction, the pain of every father who has watched dreams collapse, and the anguish of every teacher who has witnessed potential fade into silence,” he said.
He stressed that the determination to uproot drugs reflects a collective societal resolve shaped by decades of hardship. “People have risen to say: enough is enough,” he added.
Calling for community participation, Sinha underscored the role of elders, teachers, and spiritual leaders in guiding youth. “Their vigilance can save lives and act as powerful weapons against addiction,” he said, cautioning young people that drugs are “chains that steal freedom” and urging them to channel their energy into sports and skill development.
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Crackdown intensifies: FIRs, arrests, property seizures
Detailing enforcement measures, the Lieutenant Governor said authorities have adopted a “360-degree approach” targeting supply chains, awareness, and rehabilitation.
Between April 11 and May 2, a total of 481 FIRs were registered across Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the arrest and jailing of 518 drug smugglers and peddlers within 21 days.
Authorities also demolished 24 properties identified as proceeds of crime and seized assets worth crores, with Kashmir accounting for 26 such attachments. In addition, more than 300 driving licences and 325 vehicle registrations have been recommended for cancellation.
Nearly 3,000 drug stores were inspected during the period, resulting in 107 licence suspensions and one FIR, Sinha said, adding that these steps reflect strict enforcement of a “zero tolerance” policy.
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Narco-terror link flagged as security threat
Sinha alleged that drug trafficking is being used as a tool to destabilise the region, claiming that proceeds from narcotics fuel terrorism and radicalisation.
“It is a grave threat to internal security. Both terrorists and drug traffickers seek to fracture unity and destroy peace while draining the strength of our youth,” he said.
Without naming the country, he accused a neighbouring nation of pushing drugs into the region to harm youth and sponsor terrorism.
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Stern warning to syndicates
Issuing a strong warning to drug networks, Sinha said law enforcement agencies are tracking financial trails of cartels and will dismantle every link in the chain.
“Every trafficker will be exposed, every criminal will face justice. Anyone, inside or outside Jammu Kashmir, aiding drug networks will be held accountable under the full force of law,” he asserted.
He added that the administration, police, and public are “united like an unshakable force” against narco-terrorism.
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Vision of a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir
Framing the campaign as a long-term mission, the Lieutenant Governor said the goal extends beyond enforcement to building a healthier and resilient society.
“This is the vision we pursue, the dream we must fulfil, and the legacy we owe future generations,” he said, calling on citizens to sustain momentum until Jammu and Kashmir becomes completely drug-free.
