- Drug mafia no longer feels untouchable in J&K due to sustained crackdown: Gaurav
Jammu, 08 June 2026: BJP spokesperson and Convenor, International Affairs, Gaurav Gupta on Monday said that the Drug-Free J&K campaign spearheaded by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has emerged as one of the most decisive and result-oriented social movements in the Union Territory’s recent history, striking at the roots of the drug menace and exposing the nexus between narcotics trafficking and anti-national elements.
Referring to the Lieutenant Governor’s padyatra covering all 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir, Gupta said the initiative has succeeded in transforming the fight against drugs from a government programme into a mass public movement involving students, parents, civil society groups, religious leaders, sports personalities and local communities.
“The significance of this campaign lies not merely in the padyatras but in the strong message it has sent to drug peddlers and narco-syndicates that their days of operating with impunity are over. The administration under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has demonstrated unprecedented resolve in targeting the entire ecosystem of drug trafficking,” Gupta said.
Gupta noted that the campaign, launched on April 11 as a 100-day intensive mission, has yielded remarkable results on the ground. He pointed out that more than 1,000 FIRs have been registered, over 1,100 drug smugglers arrested, more than 100 properties attached and hundreds of driving licences cancelled, demonstrating the administration’s zero-tolerance policy against drug traffickers.
“Drug abuse had become a silent threat to thousands of families across Jammu and Kashmir. What makes this campaign different is that it has simultaneously targeted supply chains, financial channels and social acceptance of drugs. The results are visible on the ground. The fear that once existed among ordinary citizens has now shifted to drug peddlers and their handlers,” he remarked.
Gupta said the Lieutenant Governor deserves credit for consistently highlighting the link between narco-trafficking and terrorism, an issue that had often been ignored in the past.
“For years, proceeds from narcotics were being used to fuel activities detrimental to peace and stability. By attacking drug syndicates, the administration is not only protecting youth but also strengthening the security architecture of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Gupta further stated that the district-wise padyatras have generated unprecedented awareness among young people regarding the devastating impact of substance abuse.
“Every district witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and youth, proving that society is ready to stand against this menace. The campaign has reinforced the belief that drug addiction is not merely a law-and-order issue but a social challenge requiring collective action,” he added.
Gupta said the most significant achievement of the initiative has been the creation of a united front involving law-enforcement agencies, educational institutions, social organisations and the public.
“Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s sustained focus on the issue has ensured that the anti-drug campaign does not remain confined to speeches and seminars. It has translated into measurable action on the ground. The crackdown has sent shockwaves through narcotics networks and significantly weakened their influence in several parts of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Calling for continued vigilance, Gupta urged citizens, particularly the youth, to actively support the administration’s efforts and help build a society free from addiction and drug-related crime.
“The fight is not over yet, but the message is loud and clear: Jammu and Kashmir will not allow its future generations to be held hostage by drug cartels and narco-terror networks. The momentum generated through the Drug-Free J&K Mission must continue until the menace is eradicated completely,” he said.