Money generated through drug trade fuels terrorism, radicalization: LG

Outlines 3-pronged strategy to dismantle supply chains, grassroots awareness & treatment

Srinagar, May 02: Asserting that some drug traffickers might be building narco-palaces and becoming economically prosperous, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday reiterated that most of the money generated through this trade ends up fuelling terrorism and radicalisation in Jammu and Kashmir.

Talking to selected group of reporters at Lok Bhavan here ahead of a mega ‘padyatra’ on Sunday as part of the ‘Nasha Mukt J-K Abhiyaan’, LG Sinha, according to the news agency said, “Narcotics trade in Jammu and Kashmir has a direct link with terrorism. The administration is stepping up efforts to dismantle drug networks and curb rising addiction among youth.”

LG Sinha said, “We need to build more rehabilitation centres. But those cannot be built immediately, so, in the rehabilitation centres that exist, arrangements are being made for their (victims) treatment. The Health Department has been instructed that both OPD and IPD facilities should be sufficiently available for such people in our hospitals.”

He said the administration is working on a three-year monitoring programme for the rehabilitation of victims.

LG Sinha said, “Despite sustained efforts since 2021 under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, the scale of drug abuse particularly among young men and women remains a serious concern.”

The LG said the administration has adopted a three-pronged strategy targeting supply chains, expanding awareness at the grassroots and ensuring treatment and rehabilitation of addicts.

LG Sinha said a 100-day intensified campaign launched across J&K has witnessed large-scale public participation, with lakhs of people, including youth, women, religious leaders, civil society members and political groups, joining the movement.

On enforcement, he said strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been put in place, warning that those involved in drug trafficking will face stringent action under the NDPS Act. Measures include cancellation of driving licences, seizure of vehicles, freezing of bank accounts, attachment of properties and recommendations for passport cancellation.

The LG also said authorities are monitoring de-addiction and rehabilitation centres to ensure proper facilities, warning that non-compliant centres will face closure. He added that hospitals have been directed to strengthen OPD and IPD services for addiction treatment.

Pertinently, LG Sinha launched a 100-day campaign in J&K on April 11 this year from MA Stadium in Jammu. So far, foot marches have taken place in eight districts of Jammu division. “I feel that in 21 days, its widespread impact is visible. Roughly, more than 50- 60 lakh people have participated in various campaigns so far. There has also been a significant increase in the registration of cases in both Jammu and Kashmir divisions, and these actions are also being carried out very effectively,” he said.

Stressing awareness, LG Sinha said the campaign is being taken to every district, village and household, encouraging families to come forward and seek help without stigma.

As part of the campaign, the LG would lead a foot march to Lal Chowk on Sunday from the astroturf football stadium at TRC Chowk in Srinagar.

Calling it a “people’s movement,” the LG urged media, community leaders and citizens to actively contribute. “When the strength of society, enforcement of law and administrative resolve come together, we can decisively defeat this menace,” he said—(KNO).

Security beefed for LG-led anti-drug Padyatra

Srinagar, May 02: With the Padyatra led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha set to take place on Sunday (tomorrow), Srinagar has been fully decked up, while security has been significantly beefed up, with a coordinated effort ensuring foolproof arrangements across the city.

The march, part of the nationwide ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’, is expected to witness unprecedented participation, particularly from youth, students, civil society groups, and government officials.

Officials told the news agency that a comprehensive security grid has been activated by the Jammu and Kashmir Police in coordination with paramilitary forces. Anti-sabotage checks, area domination, frisking, and heightened surveillance have been put in place, especially along vulnerable stretches and gathering points.

Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and emergency units have been deployed strategically to respond to any contingency. The entire route has undergone sanitisation and security clearance.

The traffic department has rolled out a detailed mobility plan, including diversions, designated parking zones, and restricted entry for heavy vehicles in certain areas. Commuters have been advised to plan their travel in advance and adhere to official advisories to avoid inconvenience.

Health services have been put on high alert, with ambulances, mobile medical units, and healthcare personnel stationed at regular intervals. Fire and emergency services, along with disaster response teams, will remain on standby throughout the duration of the march.

Municipal teams have carried out extensive cleanliness drives, road repairs, and installation of public facilities such as drinking water stations and mobile toilets. Volunteers and local organisations have been engaged to assist authorities in crowd facilitation and awareness efforts.

Prominent locations, including Lal Chowk and adjoining routes, have been adorned with banners and hoardings carrying anti-drug messages, giving the city a campaign-like atmosphere ahead of the event.