AIP hails LG Manoj Sinha’s drug-free campaign as decisive, timely initiative

By RK News
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15 Apr 2026

‘NC Govt’s liquor policy undermining drug-free J&K mission’

Srinagar, Apr 14: Awami Ittehad Party has strongly praised Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for launching the “Drug-Free Jammu and Kashmir” campaign, calling it a decisive and timely initiative to safeguard the future of the youth. He said the mass movement reflects serious intent and leadership in addressing one of the most pressing challenges facing the region.

In a statement, party Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi said, “The initiative taken by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor deserves appreciation. A campaign of this scale, involving public participation and a structured approach, is the need of the hour to fight the growing menace of drugs.” However, he criticised successive NC and PDP governments for what he termed as “policy contradictions.”

Inam said, “One fails to understand how decisions under NC and PDP regimes allowed and facilitated the opening of liquor shops in Jammu, a region revered as the City of Temples, and in Kashmir, known as Reshi Wa’er, the land of Sufis. At a time when people are being made to take pledges by NC ministers against drug abuse, then why is the National Conference reluctant to prohibit liquor and smoking through legislation, especially when there is a clear majority in the Assembly. Such inconsistencies weaken the credibility and effectiveness of the larger anti-drug mission.”

Inam Un Nabi further asserted that mere announcements are not enough unless backed by consistent policy decisions. “If there is genuine commitment towards a ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu and Kashmir’, there must be a firm pledge to phase out and ultimately shut liquor shops. Only then will the intent match the vision,” he said.

Highlighting AIP’s stand, he added that the party, through its Chairman Parliamentary Affairs Committee and MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed, has already taken a concrete step by bringing a bill seeking a ban on alcohol as well as smoking, reflecting its commitment towards a healthier and drug-free society.

He also called upon people from all walks of life to actively participate in the campaign, stating that while leadership has set the direction, collective responsibility will determine its success.