Drug menace cannot be eradicated alone, society must participate: IGP

Aatif Qayoom
Comments 0
30 Apr 2026

Warns intensified law enforcement, more FIRs against peddlers

Srinagar, Apr 29: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone, Vidhi Kumar Birdi on Wednesday outlined a comprehensive action plan under the ongoing 100-day anti-drug campaign, stressing strict enforcement, targeted crackdowns, and strong community participation to curb the menace.

He said the campaign, launched recently under the direction of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, is being implemented across all districts of Kashmir with a multi-pronged approach.

"The campaign will focus on intensified law enforcement, including increased checking across districts, registration of more FIRs against drug peddlers and smugglers, and strict legal action against all those involved in the trade," Birdi said.

He said police will step up operations against drug networks by identifying and targeting hotspots and destroying illegal cultivation of poppy and cannabis. "Known offenders will be tracked through existing police records to dismantle supply chains," he added.

The IGP said efforts are also being made to inform the public about the modus operandi of smugglers so that people remain alert and contribute to the drive.

Highlighting financial aspects, he said investigations into money trails linked to drug networks will be intensified. “Properties acquired through drug proceeds will be attached, and all seized narcotics will be destroyed as per law,” he said.

The Kashmir Police chief said special attention will be given to areas around educational institutions. He said chemist shops and other outlets in the vicinity of schools and colleges will be closely monitored to ensure that no drugs reach students.

Birdi said awareness and prevention form a key pillar of the campaign. “We will organise programmes in schools and colleges to educate youth about the dangers of drugs and ways to stay away,” he said, adding that support systems for those affected will also be strengthened. “Efforts will be made to guide individuals towards rehabilitation and promote recovery options,” he added.

Calling for wider participation, the IGP stressed the role of society in tackling the issue. “This problem cannot be solved alone. Elders, community leaders, and those associated with religious institutions have influence, and their role in spreading awareness is important,” he said, adding that announcements and awareness through mosques and public platforms can help keep people away from drugs.

He said police are encouraging such groups to actively engage with the public and contribute to the campaign.

Referring to a mega rally scheduled this Sunday, Birdi said large participation is expected. He said the district administration, under the leadership of the Divisional Commissioner, has held several joint meetings to ensure smooth coordination.

“The rally is being organised to create awareness so that more people take part and a strong message goes out that this campaign must be made successful,” he said.

The IGP said the campaign adopts a balanced approach, combining enforcement, prevention, and community support to address the problem in a sustained manner and eliminate it from its roots.