SRINAGAR: Authorities in the Kulgam district of south Kashmir have successfully retrieved six marlas of state land, estimated to be worth approximately Rs 18 lakh, from the alleged illegal possession of a drug peddler in Wanpora village of Qaimoh. The operation was conducted on Wednesday by the police in collaboration with district administration officials.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the land, identified under Survey No. 303 in Wanpora, had been under illegal encroachment by Mohd. Ramzan Sheikh, a resident of Wanpora and the son of Juma Sheikh. Sheikh is reportedly involved in multiple narcotics-related cases and has been named in several First Information Reports (FIRs) registered at Police Station Qaimoh. Specifically, he is listed in FIR No. 69/2023 under Sections 8/20 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and FIR No. 20/2023 under Sections 8/21 of the same act.
Following the retrieval, the concerned authorities have taken possession of the land in accordance with the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir Land Revenue Act and other relevant legislation. Notices have been affixed at the site, and further legal proceedings are currently in progress. This action is part of a wider, ongoing crackdown by the Jammu and Kashmir Police against individuals involved in drug peddling and other anti-social activities. The operation specifically targets those who are illegally occupying state land or profiting from illicit activities, aiming to disrupt criminal networks and reclaim public assets.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police reiterated their commitment to eradicating drug menace from the region and appealed to the public for their active cooperation. Citizens have been urged to share credible information regarding drug trafficking and other criminal activities, which will aid law enforcement agencies in their efforts to ensure a safer and drug-free society. Such public-private partnerships are considered crucial in combating organized crime and protecting vulnerable communities.
The drive to retrieve encroached state land and take action against drug peddlers is a continuing initiative by the district administration and police. Officials have stated that such measures are essential to maintain law and order, ensure the proper utilization of state resources, and deter individuals from engaging in criminal enterprises. The focus remains on dismantling drug networks and reclaiming land that can be used for public welfare and development projects.
The recovery highlights the administration’s resolve to address land encroachment and the proliferation of narcotics, which are considered significant challenges to social stability and economic progress in the region. The police department emphasized that all individuals found to be in illegal possession of state land or involved in drug-related offenses will be dealt with strictly under the law, regardless of their alleged involvement in other criminal activities. The ongoing efforts aim to create a secure environment for residents and promote sustainable development.
The Chenab Times News Desk