Kashmir Impulse Desk
Rajouri, April 18
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Saturday the administration is determined to eliminate drug addiction and dismantle trafficking networks, particularly in sensitive border areas prone to cross-border smuggling.
Speaking at a public rally in Rajouri after joining a march under the government’s anti-drug campaign, Sinha said authorities had intensified enforcement efforts in recent days.
“From April 11, police launched a crackdown in Jammu division. More than 45 cases were registered, 63 smugglers arrested and large quantities of drugs seized,” he said, adding that checks had been expanded to schools, pharmacies and drug distribution agencies.
LG Sinha described drug abuse as a growing social crisis, saying it was being exploited by hostile elements to weaken society.
“Addiction is not merely a personal issue but a serious threat to society. We are determined to dismantle the drug trade and ensure such networks are broken,” he said.
The LG said the administration had launched a 100-day campaign to combat drug abuse, with a focus on both enforcement and prevention.
“In 100 days, we must break the backbone of drug networks. When society and administration act together, criminals will not be spared,” he said.
LG Sinha also stressed the importance of awareness programmes targeting young people.
“We must reach our children before drugs do, through schools, colleges and community spaces,” he said.
Authorities have put in place standard operating procedures to strengthen action against traffickers, ensure swift justice and expand rehabilitation efforts, including counselling, detoxification and aftercare, he said.
The LG called on law enforcement agencies to ensure strict punishment for those involved in drug trafficking and urged civil society groups and non-governmental organisations to support the campaign.
During the event, he administered an anti-drug pledge and launched local sports initiatives, including a cricket league and a football club, as part of efforts to engage youth under the wider ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir’ campaign.
