Srinagar, Mar 11: Director General of Police (DGP) R R Swain reiterated on Monday the police force’s full readiness to ensure the peaceful conduct of the upcoming LokSabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to the media after inaugurating a police post at Rohmoo in Pulwama district of south Kashmir, DGP Swain emphasized the J&K Police’s commitment to providing a safe and secure environment for enthusiastic voters during the parliamentary elections.
Addressing the connection between narco-trade and terrorism, DGP Swain acknowledged initial doubts but stressed that concrete evidence has revealed a deep and interconnected relationship between the two. He identified terrorist organizations such as Al-Badr, Jaish-e-Muhammad, and Lashkar-e-Toiba as actively involved in promoting the illicit trade in the region.
Highlighting the lucrative nature of the narco-trade, DGP Swain disclosed that the value of aRs 15 lakh consignment of narcotics reaches up to Rs 1 crore while traveling from Kashmir to Delhi and other parts of the country.
Asserting the police force’s robust mechanism to counter and dismantle this illicit trade, DGP Swain affirmed their confidence in effectively combating it. He emphasized the division of efforts between tackling drug consumers and those involved in the business, with strict action promised against offenders.
Expressing concern about the serious challenge narcotics pose to law enforcement, DGP Swain revealed investigations linking narcotics with terrorism, where those coordinating terrorism from across the border are the actual suppliers of narcotics.
DGP Swain outlined a strategy to deal firmly with individuals involved in drug peddling multiple times, aiming to seek capital punishment for repeat offenders through proper legal channels. He emphasized that such an approach would send a powerful message against anti-social activities.
In addition, the police will seek capital punishment for repeat offenders under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
