Crackdown gains ground

The intensifying crackdown on drug peddlers in Jammu and Kashmir marks a decisive shift in the region’s fight against narcotics. Since the launch of the 100-day Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on April 11, enforcement agencies have maintained sustained pressure, with reports of over a dozen peddlers being arrested regularly across Kashmir. This momentum signals more than routine policing, as it reflects a coordinated and determined campaign to dismantle the networks fueling addiction, particularly among the youth. For years, drug abuse has silently eroded the social fabric, devastating families and weakening communities. The current drive, therefore, comes as both a necessary intervention and a message of zero tolerance. However, arrests alone cannot constitute a lasting solution. While targeting supply chains is crucial, equal emphasis must be placed on addressing demand. Rehabilitation, awareness, and community engagement are indispensable pillars of any effective anti-drug strategy. Encouragingly, the campaign includes outreach initiatives, but their scale and consistency will determine long-term success. Another critical aspect is sustaining the momentum beyond the 100-day timeline. Anti-drug operations often lose intensity once initial targets are met or public attention wanes. Authorities must ensure that this campaign evolves into a continuous effort, backed by strong intelligence, inter-agency coordination, and community participation. Equally important is safeguarding against wrongful targeting. Transparency and accountability in enforcement will build public trust, ensuring that the fight against drugs does not inadvertently breed resentment. The tightening noose around drug peddlers is a welcome development. Yet, the ultimate goal must extend beyond arrests, to creating a resilient, informed and drug-free society. Jammu and Kashmir stands at a critical juncture, where sustained resolve can turn this campaign into a lasting victory against a deeply entrenched menace.