Associated News Bureau

Mass Movement Against Narco-Terror Gains Momentum as LG Leads Nasha Mukt J&K Padyatra in Shopian

Srinagar, May 23: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday joined the “Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir” padyatra in Shopian, where people from all sections of society pledged to eliminate narco-terrorism from every corner of the Union Territory. Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor described the growing public participation in the anti-drug campaign as the beginning of a “new era” in Jammu and Kashmir’s fight against narcotics and terrorism. He said the movement, which began 43 days ago in Jammu, has transformed into a strong grassroots campaign resonating across towns and villages of the Union Territory. “From every lane and by-lane of the UT, voices are rising in unison, demanding that not a single drug smuggler be spared,” the Lieutenant Governor said, adding that millions of people across Jammu and Kashmir are now united in their determination to eradicate narco-terrorism from the region. Highlighting the impact of drug abuse on society, Sinha said narcotics are pushing youth away from the path of progress, while proceeds from the drug trade are being used by terror groups to purchase weapons that claim innocent lives in Kashmir. He issued a stern warning to those involved in the drug network, stating that strict legal action would be taken against anyone, including officials or public representatives, found supporting or linked to narcotics trafficking. “If even the slightest trace of this infection has seeped into our system, it will be mercilessly cut out without hesitation,” he asserted. The Lieutenant Governor said thousands of smugglers and narco-terrorists had built criminal empires by destroying the lives of young people, but added that the administration was systematically dismantling these networks. Referring to growing public anger against drug trafficking, he said every drug sold in towns and villages was “like a bullet pressed against the chest of the people.” Sinha also acknowledged the concerns of parents living under the constant fear of drug addiction affecting their children and stressed the need to ensure a safe and secure environment for every household in Jammu and Kashmir. He further informed that over 7,000 women’s committees have been constituted across the Union Territory to strengthen community participation in the anti-drug campaign. Providing details of the crackdown launched during the ongoing campaign, the Lieutenant Governor said that in the past 43 days, 797 FIRs have been registered and 894 drug smugglers and peddlers arrested. He said 59 traffickers were booked under PIT-NDPS provisions, while 81 properties constructed using proceeds from drug trafficking were demolished. According to the administration, 101 immovable properties and several other assets worth crores have been attached or seized. Authorities have also suspended 457 driving licences, recommended cancellation of passports of 22 smugglers, and initiated action against 606 vehicles linked to drug trafficking activities. The Lieutenant Governor added that around 5,641 medical stores were inspected during the drive, leading to suspension or cancellation of licences of 268 stores, while FIRs were registered against six establishments. He also announced that the administration is preparing a comprehensive rehabilitation policy aimed not only at de-addiction of affected youth but also at their reintegration into society through employment and livelihood opportunities.