Baramulla, May 12 : Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said more than two lakh outreach programmes have been organised across Jammu and Kashmir as part of the administration’s campaign against drug abuse, asserting that authorities would intensify action against narcotics traffickers.
Addressing a padyatra in Baramulla district, Sinha said the administration, police and civil society were working together to curb the drug menace and create awareness among the youth.
He said the government would continue taking strict measures against those involved in drug trafficking, including property attachment, issuance of lookout notices and action against vehicles used in the trade.
“No matter where they are, those involved in drug peddling will not be spared,” the lieutenant governor said.
Sinha said people addicted to drugs should be treated as victims and brought back into mainstream life through counselling and rehabilitation.
“For the past several weeks, I have been saying that drug addicts are victims, not criminals. They need care and support so they can return to normal life,” he said.
The LG also called for greater public participation in the anti-drug campaign and urged people to report any negligence or information related to drug peddling to the authorities.
He appealed to religious leaders, elders and members of civil society to join the movement against narcotics and help protect the younger generation from addiction.
Sinha said the administration was committed to making Jammu and Kashmir drug-free through coordinated efforts involving all sections of society.(KNS).
