Budgam, Apr 27 (KNO): Residents of Ompora in central Kashmir’s Budgam district on Monday expressed strong support for the ongoing “Nasha Mukt Abhiyan”, urging authorities to adopt the strictest possible measures against drug peddlers while emphasising rehabilitation for addicts.
According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), an awareness programme was organised by Budgam Police in Ompora as part of the ongoing 100-day anti-drug campaign across Jammu and Kashmir. The event witnessed participation from residents, civil society members and community elders.
The initiative undertaken by the administration to achieve a “Drug-Free Jammu and Kashmir” is “highly commendable, given the alarming rise in substance abuse among youth, said Ajaz Ahmad, a resident.
“We need to rid ourselves of this scourge that has gripped our younger generation. If we truly want to achieve this goal, everyone—be it police or the general public—must step forward. This issue cannot be resolved through leniency anymore,” he said.
The participants said strict action by law enforcement agencies would accelerate efforts to curb the menace. They said the tough approach by the police and administration must continue.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, another resident said a significant number of youth between the ages of 15 and 30 have fallen prey to drug addiction. “Even married individuals with families are entangled in this menace. The situation is alarming and clearly visible in our locality,” he said.
Many participants, however, said that while action against drug peddlers must be uncompromising, addicts should be treated as patients. They said addicts are sick individuals and require a separate rehabilitation strategy through dedicated centres.
On drug traffickers, the participants called for the harshest punishment. “No matter the extent of punishment—even if it were the death penalty—it would still be insufficient for those involved in this trade,” said a senior citizen.
Many youth expressed gratitude to the Lieutenant Governor-led administration for launching the initiative, saying such a step was long overdue. “This was something our elected government should have done earlier. We are thankful to the LG Administration for taking this initiative and assigning the responsibility to the police, which was necessary,” said a youth.
He added that just as militancy was tackled in the region, drug abuse too must be eradicated with collective efforts. “Parents and religious leaders have a crucial role to play. Awareness at the grassroots level is key,” he said.
The residents appreciated Budgam Police for prioritising awareness among parents before enforcement. “Every parent and resident of Ompora stands in solidarity with the police. We fully support this mission,” he added.
Police officials said the programme aimed to sensitise the public, especially parents and youth, about the growing threat of drug abuse and to encourage community participation in eliminating the menace—(KNO)