JAMMU, June 7: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday joined the ‘Drug-Free J&K’ Campaign and Padyatra in Poonch, asserting that the fight against drug abuse and narco-terrorism has entered a decisive phase and calling upon every citizen to actively participate in making Jammu and Kashmir free from the scourge of drugs.
Addressing participants during the Padyatra, the Lieutenant Governor said the campaign has successfully covered all 20 districts of the Union Territory and is now focused on intensifying efforts to eliminate drug abuse and dismantle narco-terror networks operating in the region.
“The fight for a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir intensifies today from Poonch. For the next 43 days, every citizen, Panchayat and ward must unite to target drug smugglers, drug peddlers, spread awareness and accelerate rehabilitation efforts. Collective responsibility will build a healthier future,” Sinha said.
He noted that over the past 57 days, he had visited every district of Jammu and Kashmir and assured people that those responsible for harming society through drug trafficking would face strict action.
“Today I assure all citizens that we will light the lamp of a brighter future by eliminating the drug menace from our society,” he said.
Calling for a mass movement against narcotics, the Lieutenant Governor urged people across Jammu and Kashmir to dedicate the next 43 days to making every Panchayat, lane and household drug-free.
Highlighting the challenges faced by border districts such as Poonch, Sinha said cross-border drug smuggling was not only destroying the lives of youth but was also being used to finance terrorism.
“The people of Poonch understand that narco-terrorists attempt to exploit the district’s border geography. We must confront this threat through a whole-of-society approach,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor stressed that defeating the drug menace requires a shift from public indifference to collective action. He said the “not my problem” attitude only strengthens drug smugglers and peddlers, allowing them to expand their illegal networks.
“True change happens when communities stand united. A drug-free society can only be built when citizens choose to speak up and act against this shared threat,” he added.
Detailing the achievements of the ongoing anti-drug campaign, Sinha said authorities have launched a major crackdown on drug networks across Jammu and Kashmir. During the 57-day campaign, more than 1,130 drug smugglers have been arrested in 1,038 FIRs, while 63 offenders have been detained under the PIT-NDPS Act. He said over 100 properties linked to drug traffickers have been attached.
To further weaken criminal networks, he said authorities have cancelled around 700 driving licences and initiated action to revoke 130 passports of individuals involved in drug-related offences.
The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that the success of the ‘Drug-Free J&K’ campaign depends on public participation and sustained awareness. He said youth must be empowered through education, skill development and sports activities to steer them away from addiction and transform them into agents of positive change.
He outlined a two-pronged strategy for the campaign, including mobilising Youth Clubs as the frontline defence against local drug networks and encouraging women to take leadership roles in anti-drug initiatives.
“Mothers and sisters can play a crucial role in making every village drug-free and safeguarding future generations,” he said.
Sinha also announced that law enforcement agencies have been given a free hand to completely dismantle the narco-terror ecosystem. Under a newly issued Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), individuals involved in drug smuggling will face stringent action, including cancellation of passports, driving licences, arms licences and Aadhaar-linked benefits, besides attachment of movable and immovable properties under the NDPS Act.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment, the Lieutenant Governor said security agencies, including the J&K Police and narcotics enforcement authorities, have been directed to ensure that no drug smuggler or peddler is allowed to operate within their jurisdictions.
“The road ahead is long, but we will not stop until every narco-terror network is dismantled. Our determination is unwavering, our unity invincible, and our mission is to win,” he said.
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