Former Minister and senior BJP leader Chowdhary Zulfkar Ali has termed the growing drug menace in Jammu and Kashmir as a bigger threat than militancy, following the tragic death of a young drug addict in Rajouri district.
Ali, while expressing deep concern over the worsening situation, stated that another young life was lost due to drug abuse, identifying the victim as 23-year-old Amir Lone. “This menace of drugs is spreading like a parasite. It is worse than militancy,” Ali remarked, highlighting the gravity of the crisis.
The BJP leader revealed that he had spoken to SSP Rajouri and urged law enforcement agencies to take strict action against drug peddlers in the district. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive crackdown to eradicate the illegal drug trade from Rajouri and other parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
“I assure the people that we will work towards making Rajouri drug-free. This is not just the responsibility of the administration, but also of civil society, religious clerics, and parents. Everyone must play a role in ensuring that Rajouri becomes a safe place for our youngsters,” he added.
The rising cases of drug addiction in the region have alarmed both officials and civil society members, who have called for stringent measures to curb the menace. Several organizations have been advocating awareness campaigns and rehabilitation initiatives to tackle the crisis effectively.
Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies have intensified their operations against drug peddlers, making multiple arrests in recent months. However, the situation continues to escalate, with many experts warning that if immediate and concerted efforts are not made, the problem couldspiral out of control.
Locals have also urged the government to introduce stringent policies and establish more rehabilitation centers to address the growing addiction problem in the region. [KNT]
