Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, June 5

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday described drug trafficking and narcotics-related activities as a threat to national security and vowed intensified action against what he termed “narco-terror” networks, saying authorities had arrested more than 1100 alleged drug smugglers during an anti-drug campaign launched nearly two months ago.

Addressing a gathering in Ganderbal district as part of the administration’s “Nasha-Mukt Jammu Kashmir Campaign”, Sinha said the challenge posed by narcotics was no longer confined to crime and law enforcement but had wider implications for security and social stability.

“This is not simply a matter of ordinary crime but also a question of national security and a direct threat to the survival of our society,” Sinha said. “The narco-terrorists, whether sitting in neighbouring countries or operating inside Jammu and Kashmir, are enemies of our people, our children and our progress.”

The remarks come amid a sustained campaign by the administration and security agencies against narcotics trafficking, which officials have increasingly linked to organised criminal networks and terror financing in the region.

Sinha, who also joined a public march attended by people from different walks of life, said the anti-drug drive had evolved into a mass movement across Jammu and Kashmir.

“Having now visited every district in Kashmir and stood with each march, I can say that a historic movement against narco-terrorism has risen,” he told the gathering.

According to figures cited by the lieutenant governor, authorities have registered 1,036 first information reports (FIRs) and arrested 1,128 alleged drug smugglers during the past 55 days. More than 100 properties linked to accused smugglers have been attached, nearly 700 driving licences cancelled and recommendations made for cancellation of passports of 130 individuals allegedly involved in narcotics-related activities.

“Fifty-five days ago, from the soil of Jammu, I declared that enough is enough,” Sinha said. “What began as a war against drugs and narco-terrorism has now ignited into a true people’s movement, sustained by courage and driven by the collective will of ordinary citizens.”

Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have in recent years intensified efforts to curb narcotics trafficking amid concerns that proceeds from the illegal trade are being used to support militant activities. Security agencies have repeatedly pointed to attempts by cross-border networks to push narcotics into the region through smuggling routes.

Sinha said drug trafficking was causing long-term damage to society by targeting young people and weakening families and communities.

“In every march across Jammu and Kashmir, I have spoken about how drugs are destroying the future of our youth, robbing them of their abilities, dreams and dignity,” he said.

At the same time, the lieutenant governor sought to distinguish between traffickers and individuals struggling with addiction, saying the administration would focus on rehabilitation and reintegration of those affected by substance abuse.

“With compassion and dignity, we will help them return to the mainstream of society,” he said. “Through treatment, counselling and employment opportunities, we are opening new doors.”

He called upon mothers, sisters and daughters to play a leading role in combating drug abuse at the community level and urged young people to act as guardians of their schools, colleges and neighbourhoods.

Sinha also warned of tougher action against drug trafficking networks and those allegedly involved in financing or facilitating the trade.

“I promise to the people that narco-terrorists will no longer find refuge. We will hunt them down. Their days are numbered and their networks will be dismantled one by one,” he said.

The LG later launched ‘Sindh Samvad’, a podcast series, and felicitated winners of various competitions organised under the anti-drug campaign.