BANDIPORA, May 25: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha asserted on Monday that the administration is committed to eradicating the pervasive threat of narco-terrorism and drug trafficking from the Union Territory, stating that the resolve will not waver until complete success is achieved. He emphasized the critical role of public support in this ongoing campaign.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the Lieutenant Governor addressed a substantial gathering at the SK Stadium in Bandipora during a mega Padyatra, organized as part of the ‘J&K Nasha Mukt Abhiyan’ (Drug-Free Jammu and Kashmir Campaign). He highlighted that funds generated through illicit drug trade are being channeled towards militant activities, thereby fueling violence and devastating families across Jammu and Kashmir.
During his address, the Lieutenant Governor noted that narco-terrorism represents one of the most significant threats confronting the region. He unequivocally stated that the money acquired through drug trafficking directly supports militancy, contributing to the tragic loss of innocent lives and rendering numerous children orphaned. “We will make J&K drug-free and there will be no fear at all,” he declared, underscoring the administration’s unwavering commitment.
Undeterred by unfavorable weather conditions, Lieutenant Governor Sinha personally led the anti-drug campaign march, demonstrating his dedication to the cause. He informed the attendees that individuals from all strata of society, including women, students, civil society members, non-governmental organizations, religious leaders, legal professionals, and ordinary citizens, are actively participating in the anti-drug movement.
Detailing the government’s robust actions against drug peddlers, Sinha revealed that approximately 800 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered in the past 45 days alone. During this period, nearly 950 individuals have been apprehended in connection with drug-related cases, and around 850 cases have been registered under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act. He further stated that the police force is actively confronting drug traffickers, leading to thousands of arrests. Additionally, properties associated with drug networks are being attached, and driving licenses and passports of involved individuals are being seized.
The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that there will be no safe havens for those involved in narco-terrorism and drug networks operating within Jammu and Kashmir. He reiterated that the administration will persist until this menace is completely eradicated.
He outlined the systematic efforts by the police and security agencies to dismantle the narcotics supply chain across the Union Territory. Addressing the issue of rehabilitation, Sinha stressed that individuals ensnared by drug addiction should be viewed as victims and provided with comprehensive support through 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 stated.
The Lieutenant Governor characterized the anti-drug campaign as a collective mission, asserting that terrorism and drug trafficking can only be defeated through a united public front. “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 concluded, encouraging continued public engagement.
A large contingent of citizens participated in the padyatra at SK Stadium Bandipora, which forms part of the ongoing ‘100 Days Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyaan’ spearheaded by the Lieutenant Governor.
The Chenab Times News Desk