We will not rest until Jammu and Kashmir is completely drug-free, LG Manoj Sinha resolves

Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday formally launched a major campaign against drug abuse and narco-terrorism in Srinagar, asserting that the fight against the menace must be driven by collective public resolve alongside sustained administrative action.

The campaign, rolled out on April 11, 2026, was formally inaugurated at TRC Football Ground, where the Lieutenant Governor also led a two-kilometre padyatra joined by thousands of participants from various sections of society, signalling a broad-based mobilisation against substance abuse.

Addressing the gathering, Sinha said the anti-drug campaign represents a shared determination of the people and the administration, shaped by years of social and economic impact caused by addiction. He said the growing public participation reflects a decisive shift, with people openly rejecting the influence of drugs.

He stated that community involvement remains central to defeating narco-terror networks, noting that drug traffickers have deliberately targeted the youth. He said the administration and the public have jointly resolved to ensure that such efforts do not succeed.

Calling for a wider social response, the Lieutenant Governor underlined the role of elders, teachers and spiritual leaders in guiding young people. He said their engagement and vigilance can play a crucial role in preventing substance abuse and steering youth towards constructive pursuits.

He also advised young people to stay away from drugs, describing addiction as a constraint that undermines freedom and potential, and urged them to focus on sports, skill development and nation-building activities.

Highlighting enforcement measures, Sinha said stringent action is being taken under a revised Standard Operating Procedure. He said that between April 11 and May 2, a total of 481 FIRs were registered across Jammu and Kashmir, while 518 drug smugglers and peddlers were arrested and lodged in jail.

He added that 24 residential structures identified as proceeds of crime were demolished and properties worth crores were seized, with a significant number of attachments reported from Kashmir. Authorities have also recommended cancellation of more than 300 driving licences and 325 vehicle registrations linked to drug-related offences.

Further, nearly 3,000 drug stores were inspected across the region, resulting in suspension of 107 licences and registration of one FIR, he said, adding that these steps reflect a strict zero tolerance approach aimed at dismantling the drug supply chain.

The Lieutenant Governor said the campaign is being pursued through a comprehensive strategy involving enforcement, awareness generation and rehabilitation. He also flagged the link between drug trafficking and terrorism, describing it as a serious threat to internal security.

Issuing a warning to drug networks, Sinha said authorities are closely tracking financial channels of cartels and will ensure that all individuals involved in such activities are identified and brought to justice under the law.