LG Manoj Sinha launches 100-day anti-drug campaign, announces punitive measures against drug smugglers

STC NEWS DESK
JAMMU, APRIL 11 (STC): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced a series of punitive measures against narcotics smugglers, including cancellation of official documents and attachment of properties as he launched a 100-day anti-drug campaign across Jammu and Kashmir today.
Addressing a gathering here, Sinha said individuals involved in drug trafficking would face strict action, including cancellation of passports, Aadhaar cards and driving licences, along with freezing of bank accounts and seizure of assets.
He said a standard operating procedure has been introduced to target the financial networks of drug peddlers and dismantle the ecosystem supporting narcotics trade.
“Those destroying the future of our youth will not be spared. Enforcement agencies must ensure that the innocent are not harassed, but the guilty do not escape,” he said.
The lieutenant governor also said authorities would publicly identify major drug peddlers at the police station level to enhance accountability and act as a deterrent.
Highlighting the security aspect, Sinha said drug trafficking was being used to fund terrorism and weaken society, alleging that cross-border networks were pushing narcotics into the region.
“Every consignment is a threat to our youth and society. It is not just illegal trade, but an attempt to destabilise the social fabric,” he said.
Calling for wider public participation, he urged youth, civil society groups and community leaders to join the campaign through awareness drives, including pad yatras across towns and villages.
“This is a collective fight. It cannot be handled by the administration alone,” he said, adding that women, particularly mothers, can play a crucial role in preventing substance abuse.
Sinha said the administration would focus on awareness campaigns, counselling services in educational institutions and outreach to vulnerable groups during the 100-day campaign.
He also announced that new rules governing de-addiction and rehabilitation centres have been notified to ensure proper standards and prevent misuse.
Emphasising a balanced approach, he said while strict action would be taken against traffickers, individuals affected by addiction would be provided treatment, counselling and rehabilitation support.
(Straight Talk Communications)