Poonch, June 7: In one of the strongest crackdowns against drug trafficking and narco-terrorism in recent years, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday declared an all-out war against the drug mafia in Jammu and Kashmir, warning smugglers, peddlers, and narco-terror networks that there will be “no safe haven” for those destroying the lives of young people.
Addressing a large gathering during the ‘Drug-Free J&K’ campaign and padyatra in Poonch, the Lieutenant Governor said the Union Territory has entered a decisive phase in its battle against drugs, with the administration adopting a zero-tolerance approach to dismantle networks that are not only spreading addiction but also helping finance terrorism.
The campaign, which has already covered all 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir, will now intensify over the next 43 days, targeting every village, Panchayat, town, and urban ward with the aim of making the Union Territory completely drug-free.
Massive Crackdown Across J&K.
Highlighting the achievements of the administration’s anti-drug drive, LG Sinha revealed that law enforcement agencies have arrested 1,130 drug smugglers and peddlers under 1,038 registered FIRs during the last 57 days. Additionally, 63 habitual offenders have been detained under the PIT-NDPS Act to prevent them from continuing illegal narcotics operations.
Authorities have also attached more than 100 properties linked to drug trafficking, including land, houses, vehicles, and other assets believed to have been acquired through proceeds of crime.
In a move aimed at crippling the financial and logistical capabilities of drug networks, the administration has cancelled 700 driving licences and initiated legal proceedings for the revocation of 130 passports of individuals allegedly involved in narcotics-related activities.
Drug Money Fueling Terrorism.
The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir faces a unique challenge as drug trafficking is increasingly linked to cross-border terrorism.
Referring to border districts like Poonch, Rajouri, Kupwara, and others, he said narcotics are often smuggled across the Line of Control and International Border, with proceeds being used to fund terror activities and destabilize peace in the region.
“Drug addiction is not merely a social problem. It has become a serious national security concern. Narco-terror networks are attempting to poison our youth while simultaneously financing terrorism. This dual threat must be defeated with collective determination,” he said.
Not My Problem’ Attitude Must End.
LG Sinha urged citizens to reject the mindset of ignoring drug-related activities in their surroundings, saying silence only empowers criminal networks.
He said the fight against drugs cannot be won by the police and administration alone and requires active participation from families, teachers, religious leaders, community elders, social organizations, and youth groups.
According to him, every citizen has a responsibility to report suspicious activities and help authorities identify individuals involved in trafficking and distribution of narcotics.
Women and Youth to Lead the Movement.
The Lieutenant Governor announced that Youth Clubs across Jammu and Kashmir will be transformed into the first line of defence against drug abuse. He also stressed the importance of empowering women, particularly mothers and sisters, to lead awareness campaigns at the grassroots level.
“Women understand the devastating impact of addiction on families better than anyone else. Their leadership will be crucial in making every village and locality drug-free,” he said.
New SOP Brings Tougher Punishments.
In one of the toughest policy measures announced so far, the administration has issued a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) under which individuals involved in drug smuggling could face cancellation of passports, driving licences, arms licences, and attachment of movable and immovable properties under the NDPS Act.
Officials have been instructed to ensure that no drug smuggler, peddler, or narco-terror operative is allowed to function freely anywhere in Jammu and Kashmir.
A Mission to Save the Future.
Calling the anti-drug campaign a “people’s movement,” LG Sinha said the ultimate objective is not merely to arrest offenders but to save an entire generation from addiction.
He stressed that education, skill development, sports, employment opportunities, counselling, and rehabilitation must work together to protect young people from falling into the trap of narcotics.
Concluding his address, the Lieutenant Governor reiterated the administration’s commitment to completely dismantling the narco-terror ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Our determination is unwavering. Our mission is clear. We will continue this battle until every drug network is destroyed and every young person is protected from the menace of addiction,” he said.
The ongoing Drug-Free J&K campaign is expected to witness intensified awareness drives, enforcement operations, rehabilitation initiatives, and community outreach programmes across all districts in the coming weeks, marking one of the most comprehensive anti-drug movements ever launched in Jammu and Kashmir.
