Achieving “Nasha Mukht” vision

The intensified crackdown by Jammu and Kashmir Police against drug trafficking under the ongoing 100-day “Nasha Mukht Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan” marks a decisive assertion of law enforcement in the face of a growing social threat. With multiple arrests, a surge in FIRs and even the demolition of properties linked to drug peddling, the message is unambiguous i. e. the state intends to dismantle the networks that sustain this menace. There is little doubt that such firm action is necessary. Drug abuse has emerged as a serious challenge across the Union Territory, particularly among the youth, eroding families and weakening the social fabric. By targeting both the supply chains and the financial infrastructure of traffickers, the police are attempting to strike at the roots rather than merely addressing the symptoms. However, the success of this campaign cannot be measured by enforcement alone. Sustained impact will depend on parallel efforts in prevention, rehabilitation, and awareness. Arrests and demolitions may disrupt networks temporarily, but without accessible de-addiction services and community-level engagement, the demand side remains insufficiently addressed. There is also a need for procedural transparency and adherence to the rule of law. Actions such as property demolition must be firmly grounded in legal provisions to avoid perceptions of arbitrariness. Public trust is a crucial asset in such campaigns, and it must not be compromised. The anti-drug drive represents a necessary and timely intervention. Yet, its long-term effectiveness will hinge on a balanced strategy that combines strict enforcement with social support systems. Only then can the vision of a “Nasha Mukht” Jammu and Kashmir move beyond a campaign slogan to a sustainable reality.