Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, June 13: The former Chief Minister and vice president of the National Conference, Omar Abdullah, today voiced grave concerns about the escalating drug problem in the area, casting doubt on the efficacy of border controls and highlighting the need to review current fencing and anti-infiltration measures.
Omar made these remarks following a meeting on the drug problem in Jammu and Kashmir at the party headquarters in Nawa-e-Subah, Srinagar. He emphasized the urgent need for the Government to pay attention as drug addiction continues to play a role in crimes and violent situations, including murder. Click here to watch video
“The effects of drug addiction are widespread, with an increase in violent crimes and occurrences, including murder. We have called this meeting in light of these upsetting developments for two main reasons. First and foremost, we want the Government to take this matter seriously and act swiftly. Second, we want to share our viewpoint and help create a road map of action to deal with this serious issue. We must fight the drug epidemic together in order to protect Jammu and Kashmir’s future,” he said.
Abdullah voiced dissatisfaction with the Government’s disregard for this crucial issue, especially in light of the focus on tourism, investment, and important events like the G20. “If birds cannot fly over borders, how are these drugs reaching our area? It is critical to understand that the current problem is not just political but also a social crisis that seriously jeopardizes Jammu and Kashmir’s future. Sadly, the Government’s response has been dishearteningly insufficient up to this point,” he remarked.
Abdullah acknowledged that regardless of their source, these drugs are being consumed within the region. He stressed the need to question how drugs are able to enter the country despite border controls.
“If drugs are indeed crossing our borders, it exposes weaknesses in our fencing and anti-infiltration measures. Just as a bird cannot fly over borders, we must question how drugs are able to enter our country. Whether they are entering through Punjab or the Jammu and Kashmir borders, we need to ensure effective interception and prevention. Similarly, if drugs are coming through the Line of Control (LoC), the Government is accountable for stopping their flow. It is crucial that we address the problem at hand-the use of drugs by our people-instead of playing the victim card. We must all act together to put a stop to their consumption.” he said.
Abdullah confirmed his attendance but emphasized the comparatively insignificant role his party will play in the upcoming opposition meeting on June 23 in Patna.
“While we will attend the meeting and pay close attention to what the participating leaders have to say, it is crucial to recognize our limited sway. Our representation would not surpass six seats, made up of two from Jammu, three from Kashmir, and three from Ladakh, even if the National Conference won every seat. It is ridiculous to have such high expectations given our modest part in this situation. Before requesting unity from smaller parties, parties with 40 to 50 seats should first show that they have it. Before further debating it, it is only fair to demand unity from those competing for 50 to 60 seats, as we frequently see larger parties with over 100 members struggle to do so,” he added.
He said Naya Kashmir faces numerous crises, including electricity, water, and ration shortages. “If the people here were satisfied, would not elections have been held? The fear of holding elections stems from the dissatisfaction and multiple crises plaguing the region. Every department is riddled with issues, and if the situation were different, elections would have taken place,” he said.
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