J&K’s Crackdown Nets Over 4,000 Arrests In Massive Anti-Narcotics Push
UT’s Anti-Drug Drive Hits Major Milestone As L-G, DGP Link Youth Power To Peace And Unity
Jammu and Kashmir’s intensified crackdown on narcotics has resulted in more than 4,000 arrests since April, marking a major escalation in enforcement against drug-related offences in the Union Territory.
Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat said on Thursday that the ongoing Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, launched on April 11, has combined enforcement with public awareness, rehabilitation and youth engagement.
Speaking at the flag-in ceremony of the ‘Run for Unity’ event, Prabhat said 3,257 cases had been registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act since the campaign began. The cases resulted in around 4,000 arrests and 170 convictions, while more than 2,500 cases have been disposed of, he said.
Prabhat said J&K is among the leading states and Union Territories in narcotics-related property attachments. As part of the crackdown, 288 properties worth Rs 138 crore have been seized, along with Rs 80 lakh in cash. A total of 144 accused have also been booked under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act, he said.
The DGP said the campaign was also focusing on children and young people through sports and other constructive activities. Such initiatives could help channelise their energy and counter attempts to destabilise the region, he said.
“Every step our youth take—on the track or in life—is a step towards a peaceful and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir,” Prabhat said, while describing September as a significant month for counter-terror operations.
He also praised the coordinated rescue operation during the recent Gulmarg Gondola disruption, when stranded passengers were evacuated by the J&K Police, State Disaster Response Force and other agencies.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said more than 6,000 people participated in the ‘Run for Unity’, describing the event as a symbol of unity and collective resolve. He urged young people to become “brand ambassadors of unity” and encouraged them to participate in the Fit India Movement.
Sinha also praised J&K Police’s civic action programmes for engaging and empowering young people. Additional Director General of Police (Armed) Nitish Kumar played a key operational and organisational role in the event.
Officials said more than one crore people have participated in awareness activities under the Nasha Mukt Abhiyan, with 2,16,123 programmes organised through rallies, school events, village campaigns and sports activities.
During the 100-day intensified phase, 614-616 FIRs were registered and 646 people arrested, officials said. Thirty-seven houses linked to alleged drug peddlers were sealed or demolished, while properties worth nearly Rs 26 crore were attached. A total of 44,602 patients received treatment at Addiction Treatment Facilities.
The campaign involves multiple departments, including police, health, education and social welfare agencies, along with community institutions. Officials said the focus would remain on combining enforcement with rehabilitation, awareness and youth engagement while continuing action against narcotics and terrorism.