Kashmir Impulse Desk

Jammu, April 15 

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday described drug abuse as a “social cancer” and called for a coordinated response involving both government institutions and society to combat the problem.

Addressing a public meeting in Ramban as part of a campaign for a drug-free region, LG Sinha said tackling narcotics required a “whole of government” and “whole of society” approach.

“When the government’s strength and society’s resolve act together, even the toughest challenges can be overcome,” he said.

The LG alleged that drug smuggling into the region had been used for decades by Pakistan to fund militancy and harm local youth, and pledged strict action against trafficking networks.

“We will map every hotspot and act decisively. Not a single smuggler will be spared. The entire network will be dismantled,” he said.

LG Sinha led a walk from the District Police Line to the District Administrative Complex in Ramban, joined by officials, community leaders, business representatives, students and residents participating in the anti-drug campaign.

He stressed the role of communities in curbing drug abuse, urging collective vigilance and support for rehabilitation. “If society stands united behind a cause, the law becomes far stronger,” he said.

The LG also called for the formation of women-led vigilance committees at the panchayat and ward levels, saying women played a crucial role in identifying and addressing substance abuse within families.

Addressing young people, he urged them to avoid drugs and focus on education, sports and creative pursuits, adding that treatment and rehabilitation would remain a priority.

LG Sinha directed authorities to ensure strict monitoring of de-addiction centres and warned that any facility operating illegally or harming patients would be shut down immediately.

Police were instructed to identify traffickers, dismantle supply chains and strengthen enforcement efforts across the district, he said.

The LG also administered an anti-drug pledge at the event and flagged off a motorcycle rally as part of the awareness drive.