In a major crackdown on drug trafficking and narco-terrorism, the 'Nasha Mukt Jammu-Kashmir Abhiyaan' has resulted in the arrest of 1,731 individuals and the seizure of narcotics worth over Rs 150 crore across the Union territory. Launched on April 11, the campaign is the largest-ever anti-drug operation in the region, according to officials.
Enforcement Actions and Statistics
Police have registered 1,527 FIRs under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, leading to the arrest of 1,731 offenders. Seizures include 362 kg of narcotics, among which 17 kg is heroin, along with 26,308 psychotropic tablets. The estimated value of the seized narcotics is more than Rs 150 crore.
Authorities have also detained 108 habitual drug offenders under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act. As part of the crackdown, 147 immovable properties worth Rs 108.97 crore were attached, and 68 properties valued at Rs 23.05 crore were demolished, bringing the total value of property actions to over Rs 132 crore. Combined with the seized narcotics, the campaign has impacted assets and contraband worth more than Rs 280 crore.
Disruption of Supply Chain and Financial Infrastructure
To dismantle the illicit drug supply chain, action was taken against 128 chemists, with licenses of 126 establishments suspended. Additionally, 731 driving licenses and 736 vehicle registrations were cancelled or suspended, 178 passport impoundments were recommended, and 2,845 applications for Aadhaar cancellation were submitted against persons involved in narcotics-related offences.
“It has not only helped destroy the drug trafficking and peddling ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir, but the dismantling of narcotics channels has also disrupted terror financing in the Union territory,” a senior official said.
Public Mobilization and Awareness
The campaign emphasizes public participation. Lieutenant Governor has personally led 'padyatras' (rallies) in all 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir, drawing an estimated three to four lakh participants. Jammu and Srinagar recorded the highest turnout. Over 16.37 lakh awareness programs have been conducted, reaching more than one crore people.
Mental health and counseling services have been strengthened through the Tele-MANAS initiative, which has received around 5,000 calls seeking assistance related to mental health and substance abuse.
Official Warnings and Future Plans
Addressing public gatherings, the L-G reiterated the administration's resolve to continue the campaign until every drug smuggler and narco-terror network is eliminated. He warned, “Drug abuse is a form of silent terrorism. Those poisoning our youth and society will not be spared.”
