Srinagar, May 03: The Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday termed drug trafficking as “silent terrorism” and declared that those involved in the narcotics trade are enemies of the nation who will face strict action under law.
Addressing a gathering at TRC Football Ground in Srinagar before leading a padyatra under the ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan’, LG Sinha said the anti-drug campaign has transformed into a “Jan Andolan” within a short span. “This war is being fought in every home, every mohalla and every lane where drugs are destroying our youth,” he said.
He said the pledge against drugs reflects the pain of families and society at large. “This is not just a government initiative but the resolve of every parent and teacher. People have now made it clear that enough is enough,” he added, stating that voices across regions are demanding a drug-free future.
Highlighting the broader threat, LG Sinha said the narcotics trade has direct links with terrorism. “Drug money is being used to fund terror activities and procure weapons. Our youth, the most productive force, are being targeted to weaken society,” he said, adding that such designs will be defeated.
He said a 100-day campaign launched from April 11 aims to involve every citizen in the fight. “Every moment is crucial, and maximum public participation is needed to make Jammu and Kashmir a model drug-free society,” he said.
Outlining the strategy, the Lieutenant Governor said the administration is working on three fronts—breaking supply chains, spreading awareness, and ensuring treatment and rehabilitation of addicts. “Police action alone is not enough; society must stand united,” he said.
Giving details of the crackdown, LG Sinha said that from April 11 to May 2, over 481 FIRs were registered and 518 drug smugglers arrested. He added that 24 narco properties were attached, including 26 in Kashmir districts, while around 300 driving licences were suspended. Several licences were cancelled, five passports revoked, and 325 vehicles seized. He further said more than 3,000 drug stores were inspected, 107 licences suspended, and an FIR registered in one case.
He said financial networks of drug syndicates are being closely monitored and dismantled. “Every link in the chain is being broken, and no one involved will be spared,” he asserted.
Issuing a stern warning, LG Sinha said strictest action will be taken against all those linked to drug networks, whether operating within or outside Jammu and Kashmir. He added that police stations are maintaining records of peddlers and lookout notices are being issued against absconders.
Reiterating zero tolerance, he said, “Where there is guilt, there will be no mercy. But innocent people will not be touched.” He termed drug smugglers as enemies of humanity and society.
Calling it “silent terrorism,” LG Sinha said the menace is poisoning lives, weakening families, and eroding social fabric. He urged citizens to act as the eyes and ears of the administration and share information about drug-related activities.
He also appealed to religious leaders, teachers, youth, and women’s groups to actively join the campaign. “The time for silence is over. We must stand together to defeat this menace,” he said.
In a message to youth, LG Sinha said those trapped in addiction should be treated with compassion and provided proper rehabilitation. “Taking drugs is not ‘cool’. Those affected are victims who need support,” he said.
“The days of those trying to destroy Jammu and Kashmir are numbered. We are committed to making J&K drug-free, and we will achieve this goal with full determination,” he added.
