Opinion | Drug Menace and the Role of Jammu Kashmir Police in Combating It

Say No To Drugs. Join Hands With Police.
The United Nations General Assembly established the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on December 7, 1987, through resolution 42/112. The day is observed on June 26th each year to raise awareness of the issues that illicit drugs pose to society and to strengthen cooperation and action towards a Drug-Free International Society. The day is supported by individuals, communities, and organizations around the World. Theme for 2024 is “The Evidence is Clear, Invest in Prevention.”

Jammu and Kashmir, with its stunning valleys and vibrant culture, is facing a serious problem, the growing issue of drug abuse. This is not just a threat to individual health and Well-Being, but also poses a significant challenge to societal stability and security. The Jammu and Kashmir Police have taken a leading role in tackling this problem, using a Multi-Faceted approach to curb the spread of drugs under the dynamic and dedicated guidance of Officers Like Director General of Police Jammu and Kashmir R.R. Swain at U.T. Level and S.S.P. Amod at District Level Baramulla. Salute to these Warriors and their Teams at All levels.
The Extent of the Drug Menace.
The drug problem in Jammu and Kashmir has reached alarming levels, especially among the youth. Easy access to drugs like heroin, cannabis, and prescription medications has worsened the situation.
1.Law Enforcement.
The commendable performance of the Baramulla Police in the year 2023 in their relentless efforts to combat the drug menace in the District. The dedicated team of officers has displayed exceptional commitment and achieved significant milestones in enforcing the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
At the end of year 2023, the Police have filed 264 cases under the NDPS Act, resulting in the arrest of 464 drug peddlers, which include 75 Hard-Core drug peddlers Who have been booked under PIT NDPS Act/ PSA.
The Police have also made substantial seizures of contraband worth crores in the black market. Further, properties of drug peddlers worth Rs 3 crores, comprising three houses, three vehicles, and cash amounting to Rs.1.2 Crores has also been attached by the police.
Moreover, Baramulla Police destroys huge quantity of seized contraband substances worth 34 crores under section 25A of NDPS Act of various cases of Police Stations across Baramulla District at Kashmir Health Care System IGC Lassipora Pulwama.
Citizens of the district have showed utmost faith and satisfaction in the action of Police against drugs, and they have expressed their total support to the Police. Baramulla Police remains steadfast in its commitment to confront drug smugglers and to seize both movable and immovable property used for illicit trafficking within the district.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have launched various initiatives to combat drug trafficking and help rehabilitate addicts.
2.Community Engagement.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police understand that law enforcement alone cannot solve the problem. They have actively engaged with the community to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse. Educational programs in schools and colleges, awareness campaigns on social media, and collaboration with local NGOs are some of the strategies used to educate the public, particularly the youth, about the risks associated with drug use. Community policing initiatives have also been strengthened, encouraging residents to report suspicious activities and work together with law enforcement. This grassroots approach has been instrumental in identifying and addressing Drug-Related issues at the community level.
3.Rehabilitation.
Addressing the root causes of addiction, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have partnered with various rehabilitation centres to provide support and treatment to drug addicts. These centres offer counselling and medical assistance.
Challenges and the Way Forward.
Despite the significant progress made by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, several challenges remain. Moving forward, its going to be essential for, community organizations and individuals to come together and take responsibility in order to overcome the drug problem at all levels and make Jammu and Kashmir a healthier and safer place to live.
#SayNoToDrugs.
#DrugFreeSociety.
(Writer is a Columnist and a Teacher By Profession and Can be Contacted on mukhtar.qur@gmail.com )