SRINAGAR: In the past 100 days, J&K authorities arrested 2,581 drug traffickers, seized 1,431 kg of narcotics, including 23.3 kg of heroin, and confiscated assets worth over Rs 188.8 crore under the “Drug-Free J&K” campaign to cripple narco-terror financing, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said Tuesday.“We are determined to neutralise the drug cartels and narco-terror networks that target our youth. By revoking hundreds of driving licences, vehicle registrations, recommending suspension of hundreds of passports, and by acting against non-compliant pharmacies, the administration has sent a clear message that no offender is above the law,” Sinha said at an event organised by the social welfare department in Srinagar.The first 100 days of the campaign laid the foundation for the rigorous path ahead, Sinha said, adding: “The road will be tough, but our resolve to wipe out narco-terrorism is stronger than ever.”Sinha said he travelled throughout the Union Territory in the past 100 days, connecting with communities in all 20 J&K districts through foot marches. “Standing alongside families in their darkest moments allowed me to grasp the depth of their anguish. Yet amid that pain, I saw an unwavering hope and a shared conviction that our youth can break free from addiction and reclaim their lives,” he said. “During my march, I saw both pain and courage. I witnessed despair but also glimpses of hope … such unprecedented public support for this campaign has never been seen in the history of J&K,” he added.The LG urged people to speak up against drug abuse, adding that govt needs the support of the entire community. He advised youth against sacrificing their dreams to drugs. “Never let a drug dealer dictate the course of your life. Your energy is meant for building, your talent for creation, and your courage for moving forward. Take pride in your culture, your heritage, and who you are, and step confidently into a brighter future,” he said.“I appeal to parents to never ignore any signs of drug abuse in their children. We must remember that seeking help in time is wisdom. History bears witness that whether it was terrorism or narco-terror, silence has caused the greatest harm to society. So, break the silence and spread awareness so we can save millions of lives,” Sinha said.Sinha said the administration will soon launch the “Rehabilitation and Socio-Economic Reintegration Scheme for Drug Abuse Victims, 2026,” starting with a pilot in two sensitive districts of J&K. The initiative, built on a structured three-year cycle, guides individuals through medical care and therapy in Phase 1, education and employment in Phase 2, and long-term relapse prevention with community support in Phase 3.
