Calls for collective community participation
SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Friday extended its full support to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for launching the ambitious 100-day “Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan,” terming it a timely, decisive, and much-needed intervention to tackle the growing menace of drug abuse in the Union Territory.
In a statement issued here, the Association’s National General Secretary, Aadil Bhat, said that drug abuse has emerged as one of the most daunting and defining challenges confronting Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that it poses a serious threat to the youth, destabilizes families, weakens institutions, and erodes the social fabric across regions; including urban centres, rural areas, and tribal belts.
The Association welcomed the Lieutenant Governor’s firm and uncompromising stance against drug trafficking, particularly the announcement of stringent measures against those involved in the narcotics trade. These include cancellation of passports, Aadhaar cards, driving licences, and arms licences, along with the attachment of properties, freezing of bank accounts, issuance of Look Out Circulars, and financial investigations under the NDPS Act. Bhat termed the drug menace the “most vicious threat” confronting Kashmiri society.
He stated that such measures are not only strong deterrents but also necessary steps to dismantle organized networks that are systematically targeting and destroying the future of young people.
However, the Association emphasized that enforcement alone cannot win this battle. It underscored the need for a comprehensive societal approach, highlighting that sports, youth engagement, and community participation must play a central role in combating substance abuse.
“Only sports can effectively channelize the energy of youth, instill discipline, and provide a constructive alternative to drugs. Alongside enforcement, sustained awareness campaigns, debates, and youth-driven initiatives are essential,” the statement said.
Bhat further stressed that the fight against drugs is a collective responsibility and called for the active involvement of schools, colleges, universities, civil society organizations, religious institutions, and grassroots bodies such as panchayats, mohalla committees, and ward-level institutions to ensure a deep and lasting impact.
The Association also welcomed the phased and comprehensive structure of the campaign, which includes awareness drives, youth-focused interventions, strict enforcement, rehabilitation, and periodic evaluation. It particularly appreciated the recent notification of rules for Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Counselling, and Rehabilitation Centres, describing it as a significant step towards ensuring treatment, recovery, and dignified reintegration of affected individuals into society.
Calling the campaign a “battle for the soul and future of Jammu and Kashmir,” JKSA stated that its success must be measured through tangible outcomes on the ground; such as reduced availability of drugs, increased awareness, stronger community vigilance, and accessible rehabilitation mechanisms.
The Association also highlighted the broader and complex dimensions of the drug crisis, including cross-border trafficking, organized criminal networks, and the targeting of vulnerable youth. It called for enhanced intelligence coordination, institutional accountability, and sustained vigilance at all levels.
Reaffirming its commitment, Bhat said that with its extensive grassroots presence across Jammu and Kashmir and a strong nationwide network, JKSA will actively contribute to the mission through awareness campaigns, student engagement initiatives, counselling support, and collaboration with local administration and institutions.
“This is a defining moment that demands unity, resolve, and unwavering commitment. Our youth must lead this movement; as ambassadors of awareness, resilience, and positive change,” the statement added.