‘Silent Terrorism’: LG Manoj Sinha Leads Massive Anti-Drug March, Announces Zero-Tolerance Crackdown | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday termed drug trafficking as “silent terrorism” and announced a zero-tolerance policy against narcotics networks, as thousands of people participated in a large anti-drug padyatra in Srinagar.

The event, held under the ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan’, began at the TRC Football Ground with a structured programme that included the National Anthem, a welcome address, screening of an anti-drug awareness film, and cultural performances depicting the social and psychological impact of substance abuse. The Lieutenant Governor also released balloons symbolising hope and collective resolve, before administering an anti-drug pledge to participants.

The padyatra, flagged off by Sinha, moved from TRC Stadium through Residency Road, Polo View Market and culminated at Lal Chowk, covering approximately 1.7 kilometres. Participants from across society—including students, civil society members, traders, religious clerics, youth volunteers and government officials—joined in large numbers, carrying placards and raising slogans against drug abuse. A skit performance at Polo View and a signature campaign at Lal Chowk further amplified the message.

Addressing the gathering, Sinha said the anti-drug campaign has rapidly transformed into a “Jan Andolan,” reflecting widespread public concern. “This is not just a government initiative anymore. It has become a people’s movement. Every home, every mohalla is part of this fight,” he said.

He warned that narcotics trafficking poses a serious threat to both society and security, alleging a direct link between drug money and terror activities. “This silent terrorism is targeting our youth and weakening the social fabric. Those involved in this trade are enemies of the nation and will face the strictest action,” he said.

Highlighting the administration’s strategy, Sinha said the ongoing 100-day campaign launched on April 11 focuses on three fronts—breaking supply chains, spreading awareness, and ensuring treatment and rehabilitation for those affected. He stressed that law enforcement alone cannot address the issue without active community participation.

Providing details of the crackdown, he said that between April 11 and May 2, authorities registered over 480 FIRs and arrested more than 500 alleged drug smugglers. Multiple properties linked to narcotics networks have been attached, several driving licences suspended, vehicles seized, and inspections of drug stores intensified, leading to suspension of licences in numerous cases.

“Every link in the chain is being identified and dismantled. Where there is guilt, there will be no mercy, but innocent people will not be touched,” Sinha said, reiterating the administration’s zero-tolerance approach.

He also urged citizens to act as the “eyes and ears” of the administration and report drug-related activities, while calling upon teachers, parents, religious leaders and youth groups to actively contribute to the campaign.

Voices from the participants reflected a shared sense of urgency. Many described the initiative as a collective responsibility to safeguard future generations, while religious leaders said they would carry the message into communities and places of worship. Students, forming a visible segment of the march, emphasised their role in building a drug-free future.

Elaborate security arrangements were put in place for the event, with police and paramilitary forces deployed along the route, supported by surveillance measures, emergency response teams, and medical units stationed at intervals.

Striking a balance between enforcement and empathy, the Lieutenant Governor said individuals struggling with addiction should be treated as victims and provided support and rehabilitation. “Taking drugs is not ‘cool’. Those affected need care and a path to recovery,” he said.

Reaffirming the administration’s commitment, Sinha said Jammu and Kashmir is determined to emerge as a model drug-free region. “The days of those trying to destroy society through drugs are numbered. Together, we will defeat this menace,” he added.