Srinagar, June 9 (JKNS): Inspector General of Police Kashmir, V.K. Birdi, on Tuesday asserted that a combination of stringent legal action against narcotics traffickers and active societal participation remains indispensable for effectively combating the growing drug menace in Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing a programme organised by the Central Government Pensioners Welfare Association at Kothibagh, as per news agency JKNS, IGP Birdi said the Jammu and Kashmir Police has intensified its crackdown against drug peddlers and smugglers by invoking robust provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act as well as the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act.
He emphasised that while law enforcement agencies are pursuing an uncompromising approach against those involved in the narcotics trade, the challenge cannot be addressed through policing alone.
“The police are taking stringent action under the NDPS and PIT-NDPS laws. However, this battle cannot be won solely through enforcement mechanisms. Meaningful public participation and community vigilance are equally vital in eliminating this social evil,” Birdi said.
The IGP observed that society’s response to drug abuse has undergone a significant transformation over the years, shifting from a phase of denial to one of acknowledgement and proactive engagement.
He said growing awareness among citizens has facilitated better identification of drug-related issues and encouraged individuals, families and institutions to come forward in support of preventive and rehabilitative efforts.
“Recognition of the problem is the first step towards resolution. Once society collectively acknowledges the challenge, solutions become attainable through the concerted efforts of police, educators, parents and community stakeholders,” he remarked.
Referring to the Nasha Mukta Bharat Abhiyan, Birdi described the campaign as a people-centric movement that has transcended the boundaries of a conventional government initiative and evolved into a broader societal mission.
He said the campaign is witnessing encouraging participation from different sections of society and has fostered a sense of collective responsibility towards safeguarding the younger generation from the dangers of substance abuse.
Highlighting the importance of awareness and outreach initiatives, the IGP appreciated efforts aimed at involving youth, educational institutions and civil society groups, stating that such interventions would strengthen community engagement and promote long-term social accountability.
On the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and Muharram observances, Birdi said comprehensive preparations are underway to ensure smooth conduct of both significant events.
He said security agencies, district administrations and other stakeholders are holding regular coordination meetings and reviewing logistical as well as security arrangements to facilitate devotees and ensure public convenience.
The IGP added that district administrations are actively engaging with local committees and community representatives to guarantee peaceful observance of Muharram and seamless conduct of the annual pilgrimage.
Responding to queries regarding digital governance initiatives, Birdi said technology-driven interventions such as pension-related applications have significantly enhanced service delivery and transparency.
He added that similar citizen-centric technological platforms are being explored for implementation in other districts to improve public access to government services and strengthen administrative efficiency.(JKNS)
