Srinagar, May 9 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday joined a padyatra in Anantnag as part of the “Drug-Free J&K Campaign” and urged people to break their silence against drug abuse, saying the menace could only be eradicated through a “whole-of-society approach”.
Addressing a gathering during the campaign, Sinha said every section of society, including schools, colleges, families, sports grounds, villages and cultural platforms, must raise awareness about the dangers of drug addiction.
“The challenge of drug addiction can be eradicated only through a whole-of-society approach. From now on, every corner of the Union Territory should give voice to this cause with firm resolve,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor said the administration and society must understand the connection between drugs and terrorism, asserting that narcotics smuggled from across the border were being used to fund terror activities and radicalisation in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Our neighbouring country is smuggling drugs into Jammu Kashmir by design. Drug money is being used for terrorism and radicalisation while the youth are being pushed towards destruction,” he said.
Sinha termed drug addiction and terrorism as “two faces of the same problem” and vowed strict action against drug peddlers and their networks.
Highlighting action taken in Anantnag district since April 11, he said 108 NDPS cases had been registered, properties worth Rs 3.5 crore allegedly built using proceeds from drug trafficking had been demolished, 22 vehicles seized, eight driving licences and vehicle registrations cancelled, and 13 drug stores sealed for violating laws.
“I assure the people of Anantnag that not a single smuggler will be left untouched, and the entire machinery involved in drug smuggling will be uprooted,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor directed the police and civil administration to cover every panchayat in Anantnag during the next 71 days and focus particularly on vulnerable areas under the anti-drug campaign.
Calling women and youth the “greatest strength” in the fight against drugs, Sinha appealed to sportspersons, teachers and religious leaders to dedicate the coming weeks to awareness and rehabilitation efforts.
He also reiterated his commitment to ensuring justice for families affected by terrorism.
During the event, Sinha laid the foundation stone for sports infrastructure projects worth Rs 20.60 crore in the district, including development and expansion of sports facilities at several locations in Anantnag.
He said the new facilities would help channelise the energy of youth towards sports and discipline.
The Lieutenant Governor also felicitated youth icons and distributed sports kits among young participants.
Artists performed traditional Nukad Natak, Baand Pather and mime shows as part of the “Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan” to spread awareness against drug abuse.(NVI)
