Jammu and Kashmir’s Director General of Police, R R Swain, underscored the increasing threat posed by narco-trade in the region, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the menace effectively.
Speaking to the media after inaugurating the Drug De-Addiction and Mental Rehabilitation Centre at Channi-Himmat, the DGP highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “Drug trade is emerging as a major challenge and it has to be addressed properly.”
Swain emphasized the necessity of addressing the issue from multiple angles, likening it to
“Digging the tunnel from both ends.” He elaborated on the influx of narcotics into the region, noting that Jammu and Kashmir’s status as a border state makes it susceptible to the smuggling of drugs such as heroin and brown sugar from neighboring countries.
While acknowledging the historical challenge of homegrown cannabis, Swain emphasized the evolving nature of the problem, with heroin and brown sugar increasingly infiltrating the region. Despite the parallels drawn with Punjab’s drug crisis, Swain affirmed the commitment to prevent Jammu and Kashmir from facing a similar fate.
The DGP outlined the current infrastructure for combating drug addiction, mentioning the operation of 10 drug de-addiction centers run by the police along with the involvement of private entities. However, he acknowledged the shortfall in comparison to the number of addicts and emphasized the need for strategic planning to address the situation comprehensively by 2025.
Swain reiterated the police’s dual approach, focusing on cracking down on suppliers and dealers through legal measures while also addressing the demand side of the issue, emphasizing rehabilitation for addicts. “For us, the addict is a victim,” he stated, highlighting the complexities involved in combating the growing narcotics trade in Jammu and Kashmir.
Despite the challenges, Swain affirmed the police force’s unwavering commitment to tackling the issue head-on, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and proactive measures to safeguard the region from the scourge of narcotics.
