Srinagar, Apr 11 (KNO): The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has warmly welcomed the launch of the 'Drug-Free Jammu & Kashmir' mass movement by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
In a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), KCCI President Javid Ahmad Tenga said: "The launch of the Drug-Free Jammu & Kashmir mass movement is a decisive and courageous action by the Lieutenant Governor. The drug menace has been silently destroying our youth, tearing apart families, and undermining the social fabric of our communities. We wholeheartedly welcome this initiative and stand firmly behind it."
According to Government of India figures, there are more than 13 lakh (1.3 million) drug addicts in Jammu & Kashmir — a number that is staggering for a region of its size.
KCCI notes that this menace is growing day by day, penetrating deeper into schools, colleges, and households across the region. "When we see 13 lakh of our brothers, sisters, sons, and daughters trapped in the clutches of addiction, it is not merely a law enforcement problem — it is a civilizational challenge. KCCI is bound by duty to extend every possible support to the government in this war," added Mr. Tenga.
KCCI specifically appreciated the sweeping punitive measures announced by the Lieutenant Governor, including confiscation of properties of drug traffickers and cancellation of key identification documents such as Aadhaar of the accused. The Chamber believes these steps send a strong, unambiguous message of zero tolerance.
As the apex business body of J&K, KCCI affirmed that fighting this menace is both a moral and social obligation. The Chamber called upon the entire business community to raise awareness in their workplaces, support rehabilitation efforts, and ensure their establishments are in no way misused to facilitate drug trade.
KCCI expressed confidence that with collective resolve, Jammu & Kashmir will emerge victorious in this battle and achieve its goal of becoming a truly drug-free society—(KNO)