Dhaba on NH-44 demolished in Ramban over alleged drug peddling

Banihal, May 05: In a major crackdown on narcotics, Ramban Police on Tuesday demolished a roadside dhaba along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) in the Chanderkoot area of Ramban district over its alleged involvement in drug peddling.

The eatery, popularly known as Makhan Dhaba, was accused of supplying contraband substances to locals as well as highway commuters, including drivers. Officials said the establishment had come under scrutiny following specific inputs about its suspected role in the illegal drug trade.

The dhaba was owned by Nakhan Singh, son of Harbajan Singh, a resident of Punjab who had been living in Chanderkoot for the past four decades.

The demolition drive was carried out under the supervision of senior officials. DSP Headquarters Ramban Waqqas Bhat and Tehsildar/Executive Magistrate Ramban Deep Kumar led the operation on the ground. Naib Tehsildar Fariq Mirza, SHO Chanderkote R. Rakhwal, and members of the voluntary organisation Hamdard were also part of the team.

Authorities said the action was carried out on the directions of Deputy Commissioner   and District Magistrate Ramban Mohammad Aijaz Khan and was closely monitored by Senior Superintendent of Police Ramban Arun Gupta.

Police stated that the move is part of the ongoing “drug-free Jammu and Kashmir” initiative launched under the directions of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, aimed at dismantling drug networks and curbing the spread of narcotics in the region.

Locals have appreciated the action taken by the administration, terming it a strong step against the drug menace.

Further investigation into the matter is underway, officials added.