Jammu, April 30: Manoj Sinha on Wednesday joined the Drug-Free Jammu and Kashmir Campaign in Doda, calling for a united public movement to eradicate the menace of narcotics from society.
Addressing a gathering, the Lieutenant Governor asserted that narcotics smuggling is no less than terrorism and warned of stringent action against those involved. He described drug abuse as “silent terrorism” that poses a grave threat to society.
“I firmly believe that drug abuse is a form of silent terrorism, not merely a matter of law and order. The smuggling of narcotics represents terrorism in disguise. It is a hidden threat that devastates our youth, weakens families, and undermines the very foundations of society,” Sinha said.
He further emphasized that drug traffickers in Jammu and Kashmir will be treated on par with terrorists under the law.
“They are enemies of society, enemies of humanity and enemies of our youth. We are committed to wiping out this threat,” he said.
Reiterating the government’s resolve, the Lieutenant Governor stated that every drug smuggler, local peddler, and member of drug syndicates would be identified and put behind bars.
“I give you my word: we will not rest until the networks spreading this poison are completely dismantled,” he added.
Highlighting the ongoing 100-day campaign, Sinha noted that 80 days remain and stressed that every moment is crucial in achieving the goal of a drug-free society.
He called for transforming the campaign into a Jan-Andolan (people’s movement), urging citizens to actively participate and reject indifference towards the issue.
“This fight cannot rest on government machinery alone. Drug smugglers thrive on public silence. Every citizen must take responsibility to resist this menace,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also shared progress made so far, stating that in the past 20 days, around 350 FIRs have been registered and 440 drug traffickers arrested.
He appealed to educational institutions, social organizations, and the media to play an active role in strengthening the campaign, emphasizing that a vigilant society is key to preventing the spread of drug addiction.(KNC)
