‘Nasha Mukt J&K’ Turns Into Mass Movement: Div Com Garg

BuzzBytes Desk | Srinagar | May 3
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Kumar Garg on Sunday said the ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan’ has evolved into a full-fledged “Jan Andolan” within just three weeks, with widespread public participation signalling a collective resolve to eradicate drug abuse.
Addressing a gathering at the TRC Football Ground during a padyatra, Garg said the campaign has seen unprecedented outreach across the Valley. “In just three weeks, this initiative has taken the shape of a people’s movement. The response from the public has been overwhelming,” he said.
He informed that more than 30,000 awareness programmes have been conducted across Kashmir, reaching nearly every village and ward. The campaign has expanded beyond educational institutions, with over 3,000 religious leaders actively participating in the anti-drug drive.
Highlighting enforcement measures, the Divisional Commissioner said the administration has intensified action against drug supply networks, including traffickers and peddlers. “Hotspot identification, tracking, FIRs, arrests and legal proceedings are being scaled up,” he said.
He added that stringent punitive measures are also being taken, including actions related to driving licences, Aadhaar, passports, property demolition and revenue records of those found involved in drug-related activities.
To strengthen grassroots vigilance, Garg said traditional village-level networks of Nambardars and Chowkidars have been activated, while district control rooms have received over 2,000 public inputs, many of which have already led to action.
He noted that nearly 98 per cent of public institutions have joined the campaign, with steps being taken to enhance transparency through measures such as open billing and stock registers.
Outlining the next phase of the initiative, Garg said the focus will shift towards rehabilitation and support for victims, including strengthening de-addiction and counselling services across the region.
He also acknowledged the role of the Health Department in deploying counsellors at schools, colleges and block levels, and appreciated the contributions of youth groups, NGOs, media and civil society.
“I urge everyone to continue supporting this campaign with the same spirit so that we can eliminate this menace from our society,” he added.