Narco-terror, drugs biggest threat to J&K: LG Sinha

Srinagar : Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said narco-terrorism and drug abuse pose a major threat to the Union Territory, asserting that the administration will not rest until the menace is completely eradicated.

Addressing a gathering at SK Stadium in Bandipora during a padyatra organised under the ‘J&K Nasha Mukt Abhiyan’, Sinha, per news agency said the police and administration have intensified their crackdown on drug peddlers and networks across the region.

Appreciating the participation of women, students, civil society members, NGOs, religious leaders and others in the campaign, he said collective efforts are key to eliminating the threat.

The Lieutenant Governor said around 800 FIRs have been registered over the past 45 days, with nearly 950 people arrested for drug-related activities. He added that about 850 cases have been registered under the PIT-NDPS Act.

“Our police force is taking strong action against drug peddlers. Thousands have been arrested and properties linked to them are being attached. Driving licences and passports are also being seized,” he said.

Sinha asserted that there will be “no safe haven” for narco-terrorism and drug trafficking in J&K, adding that efforts are underway to dismantle the supply chain.

He also highlighted the administration’s focus on counselling and rehabilitation of drug addicts. “Youth caught in drug abuse are victims and must be helped through counselling and rehabilitation. We have to safeguard our future,” he said.

Referring to the alleged link between drugs and terrorism, Sinha said funds generated from drug trafficking often reach terror networks, aggravating the security situation.

“Because of terrorism and drugs, many families have suffered immense loss. That is why we are committed to making Jammu and Kashmir drug-free,” he said.

Calling the anti-drug drive a mission rather than just a campaign, Sinha said unified public participation can effectively counter both drug peddling and terrorism.

A large number of people participated in the padyatra led by the Lieutenant Governor at SK Stadium, Bandipora, as part of the initiative—(KNO)