By: Sameer Lone
Srinagar: While there is an all out war against drug mafia by the government, around 33 percent of the people under detentions are involved in drug related crime.
According to official data accessed by Precious Kashmir, out of 4500 under trials lodged in different jails in Jammu and Kashmir, around 1500 are involved in drug related crimes.
“Around 900 accused are below the age of 35. Most of these accused are from South Kashmir,” reveals the data.
A senior police officer said the easy availability of drugs in various parts of Kashmir especially in South Kashmir makes youth vulnerable to drug abuse.
“Drugs are another challenge for security forces to tackle this which has devastated many lives,” he said.
The civil and the police administration has now started seeking support of clergies, religious leaders and civil society members to help in eradicating the increasing drug menace.
“We have launched a drive to eradicate the menace of drugs. Strict action will be taken against those who are involved in selling drugs and devastating lives of youth in Kashmir. We are also going to seize property of drug peddlers,” said another official.
According to official data 1132 drug-related cases were registered in 2020.
“Around 1672 persons involved in drug smuggling and peddling were arrested. Around 35 drug peddlers were booked under Public Safety Act (PSA),” reads the data.
Likewise, 152.18 kgs of heroin were seized in 2020. Besides, 563.61kgs of charas/ganja and 22230.48kgs opium/poppy/cannabis derivatives were seized. Around 339603 capsules, 57925 intoxicating bottles, and 265 intoxicative Injections were also seized.
Similarly in 2021, 815 FIRs have been lodged and almost 400 charge sheets were filed in Kashmir. A total of 1465 arrests have taken place in the last year.
