Touseed Wani
Ganderbal, June 5: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday led a major anti-drug awareness march in Ganderbal, reiterating his administration’s commitment to eliminating drug abuse and dismantling narco-terror networks operating in Jammu and Kashmir.
The march formed part of the ongoing 100-day “Drug-Free J&K” campaign, which has covered districts across the Kashmir Valley and seeks to mobilize public participation against substance abuse and drug trafficking.
Addressing participants, Sinha stressed that protecting young people from drug addiction requires a collective societal response and a determined crackdown on narco-terrorism. He urged citizens to adopt a “whole-of-society” approach to counter the drug menace and prevent youth from falling victim to addiction.
The Lieutenant Governor said the administration has intensified efforts against drug smugglers and networks involved in narcotics trafficking, describing the issue as a major challenge to Jammu and Kashmir’s social fabric and future.
The event witnessed participation from residents, students, civil society members, government officials and security personnel, with marchers raising slogans in support of a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir. Participants pledged to support efforts aimed at curbing drug abuse and preventing the spread of narcotics among young people.
Officials said the campaign is focused on increasing awareness about the harmful effects of drugs while strengthening enforcement measures against traffickers and their support networks.
The Ganderbal rally comes amid a broader anti-narcotics drive across the Union Territory, where authorities have stepped up action against drug peddlers, attached properties linked to trafficking, and launched awareness programmes in educational institutions and communities.
The administration maintains that public participation remains critical to the success of the campaign and the long-term goal of creating a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir.
