SRINAGAR, Jun 5: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday issued a stern warning to narco-terror networks operating from across the border and within Jammu and Kashmir, declaring that their days are numbered and that they will have to pay a heavy price for destroying the lives of the region’s youth.
Addressing a massive gathering after leading the ‘Nasha-Mukt Jammu Kashmir’ rally in Ganderbal district, Sinha described drug trafficking as a grave threat to society and a serious challenge to national security, asserting that the administration would leave no stone unturned in dismantling narco-terror networks.
“Having visited every district in Kashmir Valley and accompanied every march under the anti-drug campaign, I can say with confidence that a historic movement against narco-terrorism has emerged in Jammu and Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He said drug smugglers and narco-terrorists operating from neighbouring countries or from within Jammu and Kashmir have targeted the future of the younger generation and attempted to weaken society.
“Narco-terrorists, whether sitting in neighbouring countries or operating from within Jammu and Kashmir, are enemies of our people, enemies of our children and enemies of progress. They will have to pay a heavy price,” Sinha said.
Reaffirming the administration’s resolve, he said law enforcement agencies would ensure strict and exemplary punishment for those involved in the drug trade.
“I promise that narco-terrorists will no longer find refuge. We will hunt them down. Their days are numbered. Their networks will be dismantled one by one. Every narco-terrorist will answer for his crimes,” he said.
Highlighting the achievements of the ongoing anti-drug campaign, the Lieutenant Governor said authorities have registered 1,036 FIRs and arrested 1,128 alleged drug smugglers during the last 55 days. He added that enforcement agencies have attached more than 100 properties acquired through proceeds of the drug trade.
Authorities have also cancelled nearly 700 driving licences and recommended cancellation of passports of 130 alleged drug offenders as part of the intensified crackdown, he said.
“Fifty-five days ago, I declared that enough is enough. What started as a war against drugs and narco-terrorism has now transformed into a people’s movement driven by courage, determination and collective resolve. Today, that commitment is stronger than ever,” Sinha said.
Calling for greater public participation, the Lieutenant Governor urged mothers, sisters and daughters to act as protectors of their villages, towns and neighbourhoods. He also appealed to the youth to become guardians of schools, colleges and communities in the fight against drugs.
At the same time, Sinha stressed the need for rehabilitation of those struggling with addiction. He said the administration would help affected individuals return to mainstream society through treatment, counselling, skill development and employment opportunities.
“We will extend compassion and dignity to those trapped in addiction and help them rebuild their lives. Treatment, counselling and livelihood opportunities will open new doors for them,” he said.
Describing the ‘Nasha-Mukt Jammu Kashmir’ campaign as a social revolution rather than merely a government programme, the Lieutenant Governor said the administration and the people of Jammu and Kashmir must work together to eradicate the menace of drugs from society.
“Together, we will ensure that no drug smuggler or peddler finds a place in Jammu and Kashmir,” he added.
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