25/05/2026
Narco-terror, drugs biggest challenge for J&K: LG Manoj Sinha
Administration determined to wipe out menace; highlights arrests, crackdown and rehab initiatives
Suhail Rather
Bandipora, May 25: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday termed narco-terrorism and drug addiction as one of the gravest challenges confronting the Union Territory, stating that the administration is fully committed to eliminating the menace from its roots.
Addressing participants at SK Stadium Bandipora during a padyatra organised under the ‘J&K Nasha Mukt Abhiyan’, the Lieutenant Governor said police and civil administration have intensified operations against drug peddlers and trafficking networks across Jammu and Kashmir.
He praised the active involvement of students, women, NGOs, civil society members, religious figures and the general public in the anti-drug movement, saying that united efforts are essential to defeat the growing threat.
Sinha said that nearly 800 FIRs have been registered in the last 45 days and around 950 individuals involved in drug-related activities have been arrested. He added that approximately 850 cases have also been booked under the PIT-NDPS Act.
“Our security agencies are acting firmly against drug peddlers. Their illegal properties are being attached while passports and driving licences are also being confiscated,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor asserted that no space will be allowed for narco-terrorism and drug trafficking in Jammu and Kashmir, adding that authorities are working to completely break the supply chain.
He further said the administration is also focusing on counselling and rehabilitation of youth affected by drug abuse. “Youngsters trapped in addiction need guidance, treatment and rehabilitation so that their future can be protected,” he said.
Highlighting the connection between drug trafficking and terrorism, Sinha said money generated through narcotics often supports terror activities and creates further instability in the region.
“Both terrorism and drugs have devastated countless families. Our mission is to make Jammu and Kashmir completely drug-free,” he said.
Describing the anti-drug initiative as a people’s movement, the Lieutenant Governor said collective public participation can play a crucial role in ending both drug abuse and terrorism.
Hundreds of people joined the padyatra led by the Lieutenant Governor at SK Stadium Bandipora as part of the ongoing campaign.
