Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday led the Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir march in south Kashmir’s Shopian district, declaring that the anti-drug campaign has evolved into a powerful grassroots movement. Addressing the gathering, Sinha emphasized that voices are rising across Jammu and Kashmir, with citizens urging the administration not to spare a single drug smuggler.
Grassroots Movement Gains Momentum
“What began 43 days ago in Jammu has now surged into a powerful grassroots movement, echoing across communities with unstoppable force,” Sinha said. He launched a 100-day intensive drive under the Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan on April 11 with the goal of making Jammu and Kashmir “drug-free.” The campaign includes large-scale awareness programs by the civil administration and police, destruction of poppy cultivation, random urine testing of drivers, and intensified crackdowns on drug networks. Awareness drives have also been carried out in schools and government institutions.
Impressive Results in 43 Days
According to officials, 797 FIRs have been registered and 894 alleged drug smugglers and peddlers have been sent behind bars in the past 43 days. Officials added that 59 alleged traffickers were arrested under PIT-NDPS provisions, while 81 narcotics-related properties built using traffickers’ black money were demolished. Furthermore, 101 immovable properties have been attached and seized, and recommendations have been made to cancel the passports of 22 alleged smugglers.
Rehabilitation and Strict Action
Sinha announced that a comprehensive rehabilitation policy is being prepared. “Our aim is not only to free addicted youth through de-addiction programs but also to reintegrate them into the mainstream by providing employment and jobs,” he said. He also issued a stern warning: “Today I want to state unequivocally: whether an official or anyone in public life, if they are in any way connected to the drug network or lend it support, they will face strict legal consequences. I assure the people that if even the slightest trace of this infection has seeped into our system, it will be mercilessly cut out without hesitation.”
