Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, May 13 

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Wednesday that a public campaign against narcotics in the region was evolving into a “mass movement” as authorities intensified a crackdown on drug trafficking networks allegedly linked to militancy.

Addressing a gathering during the “Nasha-Mukt Jammu Kashmir” campaign rally in Kupwara district, LG Sinha said authorities had arrested more than 730 drug smugglers and peddlers across the region during the past month.

“Our consistent action is crippling narco-terrorist networks,” Sinha said. “Properties worth crores have been seized, assets confiscated and passports of 15 smugglers have been recommended for cancellation.”

Sinha said drug trafficking and militancy were interconnected, accusing Pakistan of financing militant activities in Kashmir through cross-border narcotics smuggling.

“For decades, people in Jammu and Kashmir saw drugs and terrorism as separate threats. But they are not two problems. They are the two heads of the same snake,” he said.

He said the anti-drug campaign, launched in April, had gained widespread public support across villages, towns, schools and colleges in Jammu and Kashmir.

According to Sinha, 28 alleged drug smugglers had been arrested in Kupwara and Handwara areas alone.

He directed police stations in Kupwara district to identify active drug traffickers and intensify enforcement measures within the next 68 days as part of the anti-narcotics drive.

“As a border district, Kupwara must stay extra vigilant and take the harshest action against drug smugglers,” he said.

Sinha also appealed to residents to support rehabilitation efforts for people struggling with addiction.

“The drug addicts need our compassion. They are our responsibility,” he said, adding that authorities must ensure counselling and treatment facilities for affected youth.

The LG said officials had been instructed to respond swiftly to complaints received through the government’s Manas portal and helpline services.

He also criticised those opposing the campaign and challenged critics to identify any innocent person who had been unfairly targeted during the crackdown.

“In the days ahead, our crackdown against drug smuggling networks will grow tougher and more powerful,” Sinha said.

During his visit to Kupwara, Sinha also inaugurated sports and youth engagement initiatives under the anti-drug campaign, including a volleyball championship and a reel-making competition on drug abuse awareness.

Later, addressing a separate event in Trehgam area of Kupwara, Sinha said the government was working to transform border villages into “model hubs of development” through investments in infrastructure, welfare schemes and tourism.

He said electricity coverage in Kupwara district had increased to nearly 95% of households, while telecom connectivity had reached around 88%, with full coverage targeted by year-end.

Sinha also highlighted the revival of the Sharda Temple in Teetwal as a boost to tourism in border areas of Kupwara district.

During the visit, he inaugurated 26 smart classrooms under the Aspirational District Programme and laid foundation stones for infrastructure projects, including a hilltop playground and restoration work at a Shiv temple in Trehgam.