Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday joined a large public gathering in Budgam as part of the ongoing ‘Drug-Free J&K’ campaign. He assured citizens that all arms of the administration would act with unity and determination to tackle the growing menace of drug abuse.
Addressing the gathering, Sinha urged families, social organisations, and spiritual and political leaders to intensify the campaign across the district. He reiterated that the administration is fully committed to eradicating drug abuse from society.
In a key initiative, the Lieutenant Governor announced the formation of an informal ‘Parents Brigade’ in villages and urban areas wherever feasible. The initiative aims to create a voluntary network of parents, women and youth who will be trained to identify early signs of drug use and connect affected families with appropriate support and resources.
Sinha emphasised the collective responsibility of society in addressing the crisis. “Every young person lost to addiction weakens our future workforce and deprives our security forces of potential strength. Every family shattered by addiction undermines the foundation of our society,” he said.
He acknowledged that many young individuals are currently struggling with substance abuse and stressed the importance of compassion. “They are not criminals; they are victims. They need care, understanding and support,” he noted, urging society to eliminate the stigma surrounding addiction.
Highlighting the need for openness, Sinha said families should not suffer in silence. “Silence will not defeat this problem. People must come forward, speak up and seek help,” he added.
Describing drug addiction as both a public health and national security issue, the Lieutenant Governor warned that drug trafficking is closely linked to terrorism and radicalisation. “The drug trade not only destroys the aspirations of our youth but also funds anti-national activities. Fighting drugs is also a fight against terror,” he asserted.
Sinha recalled launching the ‘Drug-Free Jammu & Kashmir’ campaign on April 11 in Jammu, expressing confidence that a united society can overcome any challenge. “Law enforcement alone cannot win this battle. When teachers, parents, community leaders and citizens come together, they become an unstoppable force,” he said.
He noted that 76 days remain in the 100-day campaign and called on citizens to make every effort to ensure its success.
The Lieutenant Governor also revealed that strict directions have been issued to police stations across the Kashmir Valley to identify and act against drug smugglers and peddlers within 30 days. Authorities are also monitoring financial transactions linked to drug networks, with action planned not only against small-time offenders but also major traffickers. “Properties built using drug money will be demolished,” he warned.
Urging public participation, Sinha appealed to residents to act as the eyes and ears of law enforcement agencies. “Report any suspicious activity immediately. With your support, we will ensure that no drug peddler operates in any village, neighbourhood or educational institution,” he said.
He issued a stern warning to those involved in the drug trade, stating, “Your time in Budgam is over. Our agencies know who you are, and you will be held accountable. Not a single drug smuggler will escape justice.”
