Kashmir Impulse Desk

Jammu, April 1

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday ordered a zero-tolerance approach to drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir, directing officials to intensify enforcement while expanding prevention and rehabilitation efforts.

At a high-level meeting in Jammu with senior civil and police officials, including district administrators and police chiefs, LG Sinha outlined a strategy that combines stricter action against trafficking networks with public awareness campaigns and improved access to treatment and counseling.

“Combating drug abuse must remain a top priority,” he said, urging a coordinated response to protect young people and address what officials described as a growing concern in the region.

The LG instructed authorities to strengthen intelligence gathering at the local level and to pursue more aggressive action against smugglers, while ensuring close coordination between administrative and law enforcement agencies.

Officials also reviewed plans for a three-month campaign under the central government’s anti-drug initiative, aimed at reducing demand and mobilizing communities. 

LG Sinha urged senior officials to take the lead and ensure participation from schools, civil society groups and other stakeholders to broaden the reach of the effort.

Among those present were the Chief Secretary, the Director General of Police and other senior officials from the home department and law enforcement agencies.

The directives come amid rising concern over drug use in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, with authorities emphasizing a broader approach that pairs enforcement with outreach and rehabilitation to curb both supply and demand.