Drugs seems to have been devastating the lives of people as one third accused under detentions in Jammu and Kashmir are related to drugs.
According to official data, out of 4500 under trials lodged in 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.
A senior police official said there is easy availability of drugs in various parts of Kashmir especially in South Kashmir.
“Drugs are another challenge for security forces to tackle this which has devastated many lives. Most of the drugs are brought from Punjab. We are also seeking support of Ulamas and civil society members to help us in eradicating this menace,” the official said.
“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,” the official said.
Data of Jammu and Kashmir police reveal that 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).
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.
Mohammad Subhan, who resides in south Kashmir, struggles to help his lone son to overcome heroin addiction. His son, who is 27-year-old started taking drugs at the age of 17. Subhan wanted his son to become an advocate. However, all his dreams have almost vanished now.
“He initially started smoking along with his friends when he was in school. When he reached high secondary, he started taking Charas and later on consumed heroin. I came to know that he was introduced to a drug peddler by one of his friends in our village. Firstly, he was given drugs free of cost and then he started selling things at home like TV, bikes for the drugs,” Subhan said. (KINS)
