Thousands expected; elaborate arrangements in place
Sinha to attend Vibrant Village Programme in Trehgam
Aatif Qayoom
Kupwara, May 12: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha will lead a mega padyatra in the border district of Kupwara on Wednesday as part of the ongoing 100-day Nasha Mukt Bharat campaign, with thousands of people expected to participate in what officials say could become one of the biggest public rallies against drug abuse in Jammu and Kashmir.
The march will be joined by senior civil and police officials, youth groups, students, social activists, and members of the public. Authorities have already completed elaborate arrangements to ensure smooth conduct of the event. The administration views the campaign as a strong public message against the growing drug menace in Kashmir Valley.
After the culmination of the padayatra, the Lieutenant Governor is also scheduled to attend the Vibrant Village Programme at Trehgam Sports Ground, Kupwara, at around 11:30 am. The programme is expected to focus on development, youth engagement, and strengthening public participation in social reforms.
Over the past five weeks, the Nasha Mukt J&K campaign has gained visible ground across Kashmir. Schools, colleges, police units, health departments, and civil society groups have organised awareness drives, seminars, counselling sessions, and anti-drug programmes in various districts. The campaign has especially targeted youth awareness and community participation.
Simultaneously, law enforcement agencies have intensified action against drug peddlers and networks operating in different parts of north Kashmir. Police have launched multiple crackdowns against those allegedly involved in drug trafficking. Several properties linked to accused persons have been seized under legal provisions, while some illegally constructed structures were demolished by the administration during recent operations.
Officials believe that public participation, strict policing, and social awareness together can help curb the spread of narcotics in Kashmir. Wednesday’s mega rally in Kupwara is being seen as both a symbolic and practical step towards building a stronger anti-drug movement across the region.