Srinagar, May 4 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday set a 78-day deadline for district administrations to intensify efforts to curb drug abuse and dismantle narcotics networks across the Union Territory.
Chairing a high-level review meeting at the Civil Secretariat here, Sinha assessed the progress of the ongoing ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir Abhiyaan’ and directed officials to adopt a focused, time-bound and result-oriented approach to tackle the menace.
He asked Deputy Commissioners and senior police officials to ensure strict implementation of anti-narcotics measures at all levels with measurable outcomes, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.
The Lieutenant Governor called for intensified grassroots mobilisation at Panchayat and ward levels, urging active participation of community stakeholders including religious leaders, teachers, traders and youth groups to turn the campaign into a mass movement.
Highlighting the role of youth engagement, Sinha directed officials to develop playfields in all panchayats and organise regular sports and recreational activities to steer young people away from substance abuse.
He also ordered strict enforcement action against drug peddlers, including cancellation or suspension of driving licences, passports and other documents, and speedy identification and seizure of properties linked to narcotics trade.
The Lieutenant Governor stressed enhanced surveillance around educational institutions and vulnerable areas, along with regular inspection of pharmaceutical shops to check misuse of prescription drugs.
He further directed authorities to identify and take action against unauthorised de-addiction centres, ensuring only certified institutions operate as per norms.
Sinha underscored the need to strengthen Mahila Samitis and youth clubs for awareness campaigns and community monitoring, and asked officials to use Block Diwas and Thana Diwas platforms for grievance redressal.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat and other senior civil and police officials.
The Lieutenant Governor also directed officials to ensure adequate arrangements for the smooth conduct of upcoming events, including the annual Amarnath Yatra and Muharram, with focus on public safety and convenience.(NVI)
