Jammu, Apr 11 — Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday announced stringent punitive measures against drug smugglers, including cancellation of passports, Aadhaar cards and driving licences, and attachment of properties, as he launched a 100-day anti-drug campaign across Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing a gathering at MA Stadium Jammu, Sinha said authorities will target drug networks financially and legally under a newly introduced Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
“Passports, Aadhaar cards, driving licences of drug smugglers will be cancelled. Their movable and immovable properties will be attached, bank accounts frozen and financial investigations initiated,” he said.
He added that top drug peddlers will also be publicly identified at the police station level to enhance accountability and deterrence.
Calling the drug menace widespread, Sinha said it has “reached every village, every district and every section of society,” and stressed that tackling it requires a collective effort.
“This fight cannot be won by the administration alone. Society must come together,” he said, urging youth, civil society and community leaders to actively participate through awareness drives and pad yatras.
Linking drug trafficking to security concerns, the LG said narcotics are being used to fund militancy and destabilise society. “Every consignment that reaches here is not just poison, but a weapon against our future,” he said, adding, “Do not harass the innocent, but do not let the guilty escape.”
Outlining the 100-day strategy, he said the campaign will focus on grassroots awareness, counselling in schools and colleges, and targeted outreach to vulnerable sections.
Sinha also announced that the government has notified the Jammu and Kashmir Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Counselling and Rehabilitation Centre Rules, 2026, to regulate de-addiction facilities.
“Only genuine centres with adequate staff and facilities will be allowed to operate. Strict action will be taken against violators,” he said.
Reiterating a balanced approach, he said individuals affected by addiction will receive full support for treatment and rehabilitation. “We must help victims return to a normal life while taking strict action against those who push them into this trap,” he added.