‘Drug menace major challenge’
Fayaz Bukhari
SRINAGAR, Aug 11 : Director General of Police, Dilbag Singh today said that there are the lowest number of militants as of now in Kashmir and they will be neutralised soon but described the Pakistan sponsored drug menace as a major challenge.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of ‘Meri Matti Mera Desh’ event, at Kupwara, the DGP said that a significant progress has been made in curbing militancy in Kashmir so far.
“The number of active militants has been reduced to a two-digit and the remaining will also be neutralized soon,” he said.
Singh said that the major challenge is being posed by the drug trade in Kashmir. “There, is however, a challenge posed by the rise in drug trade which needs to be tackled by the law enforcement agencies”, he said.
The DGP said that after decades of militancy, Pakistan has now shifted its strategy towards a drug war. He, however, said that just like war against militancy was fought, a similar kind of war will be fought against drug mafia.
“War against drugs needs combative efforts. Just like we fought militancy, we will wipe out this drug from J&K, hopefully, but we need the active support of people, civil society, and youngsters at large,” he said.
Singh said that people’s participation in an increasing number of large-scale events with enthusiasm indicates a renewed sense of normalcy in J&K.
“Activities that were once restricted due to religious and social concerns are now being conducted seamlessly, fostering community interaction and unity”, he said.
Singh said that police have always been committed to channelize the energy of youth towards right directions. “We aim to make change together. We are committed to bring a change from an environment of killings to a positive direction. Our support has always been there for the good of youth,” he added.
Appreciating the increasing footfall of border tourism, the DGP said that he is happy to see it picking so well. “There are a lot of places which were prone to infiltration and ceasefire,” he said.
Singh said that desperate attempts were made in the past to disrupt peace through these places. “After all attempts to disrupt the situation were foiled, people have started to visit these places,” he said.
“Visitors want to go to these places on the LoC. These places are very beautiful thus attracting everyone. Keran, Teethwal, Bungus, Gurez and Lolab are some of places that interest everyone,” he said.
The DGP assured the public that adequate arrangements have been put in place at every district, range, and J&K level for smooth conduct of Independence day celebrations. He hoped that all functions, including the main Independence Day event in Srinagar, will be conducted peacefully.
Singh said that as part of the Meri Matti Mera Desh program, various initiatives such as Tiranga Rallies and educational activities have been organized across schools, colleges, and civil administration offices in J&K.
“These initiatives are aimed at honoring the sacrifices made by individuals who laid down their lives for the nation’s well-being,” he said.
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