Baramulla, July 18: The Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Baramulla, Amod Ashok Nagpure, on Tuesday acknowledged the significant challenge posed by drug abuse in the border areas, particularly in Uri of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district.
Addressing reporters on the sidelines of a free medical camp in Silikote village, a forward area in the Uri sector, SSP Nagpure expressed optimism about the progress made in curbing drug smuggling through sustained efforts conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir police over the past six months.
He emphasized that the success achieved thus far should serve as a warning to all drug peddlers, urging them to refrain from engaging in such illegal activities.
SSP Nagpure reiterated the commitment of Baramulla police to crack down on drug-related offenses, underscoring the need for drug peddlers to desist from their illegal pursuits.
In a demonstration of the government’s border outreach program, the north Kashmir Police Range, led by Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Vivek Gupta IPS, organized a free medical camp in Silikote village to cater to the health needs of local residents.
Highlighting the objective of the medical camp, SSP Nagpure stated that it aimed to deliver crucial health-related messages to people residing in the forward area, addressing their health concerns effectively.
The camp featured the presence of medical professionals and experts who provided consultations, immediate treatments, and necessary referrals for severe health conditions.
Speaking on strategies to combat drug abuse, SSP Baramulla outlined two main approaches.
“Firstly, the crackdown on drug suppliers has resulted in the registration of 187 FIRs under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in the past six months,” he said.
“Law enforcement agencies have apprehended approximately 318 drug peddlers, including 34 hardcore offenders who have been booked under the NDPS Public Safety Act (PSA).”
Secondly, SSP Nagpure stressed the importance of addressing the demand side of drug abuse.
“Baramulla has implemented an ongoing awareness program to combat the drug menace and operates a drug de-addiction center,” he further added.
Similar centers are also present in Srinagar and Anantnag.
By simultaneously reducing supply and tackling demand, SSP Nagpure expressed optimism that with the active cooperation of the people, Baramulla will soon achieve the status of a drug-free district.
