Budgam, May 5 (NVI): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday joined a massive padyatra in Budgam as part of the ongoing Drug-Free Jammu & Kashmir campaign, pledging sweeping and decisive action against drug smugglers and narco-terror networks.
Addressing a large gathering, the Lieutenant Governor announced the formation of an informal ‘Parents Brigade’ in every village and city, aimed at creating a voluntary network of parents, women, and youth. He said the initiative would empower communities to identify early signs of drug abuse and connect affected families with support systems.
Calling for collective action, Sinha urged every section of society—including families, social organizations, and community leaders—to intensify efforts against drug abuse across the district.
“The entire district of Budgam must stand against the poison of drugs that is destroying the souls of our youth,” he said, emphasizing that addiction weakens not only families but also the nation’s future workforce and security structure.
Highlighting the human dimension of the crisis, he stated that youth trapped in addiction should be treated with compassion. “They are victims, not criminals, and they need our care and support,” he added, while urging society to break the stigma surrounding drug abuse.
The Lieutenant Governor described drug addiction as both a public health and national security issue, asserting that drug trafficking is closely linked with terror funding. He warned that strict action would be taken against all those involved in the narcotics trade.
Sinha revealed that police stations across the Kashmir Valley have been directed to compile detailed data on drug peddlers and smugglers and initiate decisive action within 30 days. He further said that financial networks of drug cartels are under surveillance and properties built through illegal earnings will be demolished.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, he said the fight against drugs requires unified public participation. “When we fight against drugs, we also fight against terror. When we protect our youth, we protect our nation,” he asserted.
The Lieutenant Governor also called upon citizens to act as vigilant partners by reporting suspicious activities, warning drug smugglers that their time in Budgam “has ended” and that no offender will escape accountability.(NVI)
