SRINAGAR: To combat narcotics trafficking and its illicit proceeds, the Jammu and Kashmir administration made significant strides in 2024 by identifying 188 properties of traffickers for attachment under the Smugglers and Foreign Exchange Manipulators Act (SAFEMA). Additionally, 274 repeat offenders were detained under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, addressing a regional conference on “Drug Trafficking and National Security,” chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, highlighted these achievements. Participating virtually from Jammu, Sinha emphasised the Union Territory’s commitment to dismantling the narco-terror nexus. He underlined the administration’s adoption of a “whole of government” approach under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.
The Lieutenant Governor revealed that 2024 marked a year of unprecedented progress in the fight against narcotics. A record 210 convictions were secured, the highest ever, while 1,514 cases under the NDPS Act were registered, resulting in 2,260 arrests. He stressed the government’s determination to dismantle the drug syndicate threatening national sovereignty and security.
Five special NDPS courts have been established in Jammu and Kashmir to expedite justice. Financial investigations are now integrated into every case to trace drug networks’ forward and backward linkages. Strengthened forensic laboratories equipped with modern technology and adequate manpower have enhanced early charge-sheet filing and effective trials.
Inter-departmental coordination and regular NCORD meetings over the past two years have further reinforced the government’s response to drug trafficking and abuse. The administration remains committed to neutralising the drug menace and protecting the nation’s security and well-being.
