Manoj Sinha on Wednesday led a large anti-drug padyatra in Kupwara district, calling for a united fight against narcotics abuse while warning of strict action against drug traffickers operating across Jammu and Kashmir.
The rally was organised under the ongoing ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir’ campaign and began with an inaugural programme at Government Boys Higher Secondary School Kupwara. Thousands of students, youth volunteers, civil society members, security personnel and government officials participated in the march, carrying placards and raising slogans against substance abuse.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said the administration was intensifying both enforcement and awareness efforts to dismantle narcotics networks and protect young people from drug addiction.
“Measures including vehicle de-registration, lookout notices and property seizure will be taken against those involved in drug trafficking, irrespective of where they are. No drug peddler will be spared,” Sinha said.
He stated that more than two lakh awareness and outreach programmes had already been conducted across Jammu and Kashmir under the anti-drug campaign and praised the Kupwara administration for mobilising strong public participation.
“I have been informed that over two lakh outreach programmes have taken place across J&K. I am satisfied with the Kupwara administration for its dedication in tackling this menace with public support,” he added.
The Lieutenant Governor stressed that individuals suffering from drug addiction should be viewed as victims in need of rehabilitation and social support rather than punishment.
“For the last 31 days, I have consistently maintained that those consuming drugs are victims, not culprits. We must help them return to normal life with care and rehabilitation,” he said.
Sinha also urged religious scholars, teachers, elders and civil society groups to actively join the anti-drug movement, stating that the fight against narcotics requires collective social responsibility.
“Every minute is important for us now. If there is any lackadaisical approach, people should inform us and we will act on it,” he remarked.
Several political leaders and public representatives, including Sajad Gani Lone, Mir Mohammad Fayaz, Qaysar Jamsheed Lone, Mir Saifullah and Javaid Ahmad Mirchal also attended the event along with district officials.
Following the padyatra in Kupwara, the Lieutenant Governor proceeded to Trehgam for another outreach programme as part of the administration’s ongoing anti-drug awareness drive in north Kashmir.
