In a candid conversation with Kashmir Magazine Correspondent Asif Malik, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar Dr G V Sandeep Chakraborty outlines an intensified crackdown on drug networks under the ongoing anti-narcotics campaign. Speaking on the vision of Manoj Sinha’s drug-free Jammu and Kashmir initiative, he details a multi-pronged strategy targeting peddlers, funding channels and the larger ecosystem, while stressing that the fight against drugs cannot be won without active public participation.
Excerpts
KM: How do you see the broader vision behind the anti-drug campaign currently underway in Srinagar?
Dr G V Sandeep Chakraborty: The ongoing campaign is part of the larger vision of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to make Jammu and Kashmir a drug-free region. The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan is not just a program, it is a national mission and a people’s movement. Its primary objective is to protect our children and youth from the growing threat of drug abuse. This is not merely a law enforcement issue; it is about safeguarding the future of society.
KM: Srinagar Police has launched a 100-day campaign. What does this initiative involve?
Dr G V Chakraborty: Srinagar Police has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against drugs. Under this approach, we have launched a 100-day campaign that is both action-oriented and intensive.
We have already conducted large-scale operations and modules, and the pace of these operations will increase further. In the coming days, we will move at double speed, with more intensified and more targeted action against the drug network. Our focus is not just on small offenders, we are targeting the entire drug ecosystem, including peddlers, major suppliers, and all those involved in sustaining this network.
KM: You mentioned targeting the ecosystem. What does that mean in practical terms?
Dr G V Chakraborty: It means a comprehensive approach. We are identifying and removing drug peddlers and major operators what people often call the “big fish” from society.
But it does not stop there. We are also focusing on dismantling the financial backbone of the drug trade. This includes targeting funding channels and any form of support that enables the drug network to function.
Anyone who is a stakeholder in this ecosystem will face strict action. Our aim is to take them out of circulation completely and dismantle the network in its entirety.
KM: How has the strategy evolved compared to previous years?
Dr G V Chakraborty: Earlier, the approach was largely limited to registering cases under NDPS, making arrests, and invoking PSA against offenders. While those measures continue, we have now adopted a multi-faceted strategy.
We are not only arresting offenders and registering FIRs but also attaching properties to create a strong deterrent. This sends a clear message that involvement in drug activities will have serious financial consequences.
Additionally, we are investigating the sources of funding, including any external or cross-border links. The idea is to strike the problem from every possible angle.
KM: How important is community participation in this fight?
Dr G V Chakraborty: This fight cannot be won by the police or civil administration alone. Drugs are a social issue, and society must play a central role.
We have received support from the people of Srinagar, but we need complete participation. If we achieve 100 percent cooperation from the community, we can decisively win this battle. We urge people to share information and intelligence with us. Community participation at the local level is critical to identifying and eliminating drug networks.
KM: What role do awareness and outreach play in this campaign?
Dr G V Chakraborty: Awareness is a key pillar of this campaign. Alongside enforcement, we are conducting rallies, debates, television interactions, and podcasts to educate people about the dangers of drug abuse. Civil departments and the police are working together to spread awareness. But awareness must also come from within society families, parents, schools, and colleges all have a role to play.
Everyone has a responsibility in this fight.
KM: Why was the campaign launched from Amar Singh College?
Dr G V Chakraborty: We deliberately chose Amar Singh College as the starting point because youth are the future of our country. The message had to begin with them. If we can protect our youth from drugs, we are securing the future of society itself.
KM: What is your final message to the people of Srinagar?
Dr G V Chakraborty: Our message is simple: support us and do not be afraid to come forward. This is a collective fight. We need active participation from the community. Share information, stay aware, and play your role at every level.
With strong cooperation from society, we are confident that we will win this war against drugs.
KM: Thank you for having us
Dr G V Chakraborty: Thank you
