Jammu, April 15, 2026: Stepping up the “Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan,” Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday led a Padyatra in Ramban and addressed a large public gathering, reiterating the administration’s resolve to eliminate drug abuse and secure the future of the youth.
The Padyatra, held under the Drug-Free Jammu and Kashmir campaign, witnessed participation from public representatives, senior civil and police officials, civil society members, religious leaders, traders, ex-servicemen, students, youth, and citizens from all walks of life. The gathering reflected a strong collective commitment to uproot drug addiction, transform society, and protect future generations.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor asserted that drug abuse is not merely a law-and-order issue but a grave social crisis that demands a comprehensive response. He emphasised the need for a “Whole of Government” and “Whole of Society” approach, stating that the combined strength of governance and public resolve can overcome even the toughest challenges.
Highlighting the external dimension of the problem, he alleged that Pakistan has, for decades, been orchestrating drug smuggling into Jammu and Kashmir to fund terrorism and weaken the youth. He said that all drug hotspots would be identified and targeted with decisive action. “Not a single smuggler will be spared, and the entire network will be dismantled,” he said.
Underscoring the role of society, the Lieutenant Governor called for collective vigilance and participation, noting that the spread of drugs is pervasive and requires a united response. He stressed that when society stands together, the effectiveness of law enforcement increases manifold.
He highlighted the critical role of women in combating the menace and urged the formation of vigilance committees at the Panchayat and ward levels. He also appealed to families to treat addiction as a health issue, encouraging early identification, treatment, and rehabilitation rather than social stigma.
Directly addressing the youth, the Lieutenant Governor warned against the misconception of drugs being “cool,” describing addiction as a form of slavery to substances and traffickers. He encouraged young people to channel their energy into sports, arts, and education, while assuring that the government would prioritise rehabilitation and support mechanisms.
He further directed strict monitoring of de-addiction centres, stating that any centre found operating illegally or harming society would be shut down within 24 hours, irrespective of influence.
Issuing clear instructions to law enforcement agencies, he directed the police to break drug supply chains, maintain records of traffickers in Ramban, and dismantle narcotics networks.
Declaring that the time for societal silence is over, the Lieutenant Governor said the administration has prepared a comprehensive multi-pronged strategy covering every ward and Panchayat. He urged citizens to ensure that no drug dealer finds shelter in their communities and that every affected individual is guided towards recovery.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor administered the Anti-Drug Pledge and flagged off a bike rally, while a series of awareness programmes were organised to encourage active public participation in the fight against narcotics
