ANTF Ladakh cracks down against drug menace, nabs several peddlers

Excelsior Correspondent

LEH, June 10: Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) of Ladakh has launched a massive crackdown and apprehended drug peddlers and seized over 1.5 kg of charas in the first week of its establishment. The development assumes greater significance in the wake of 298 new cases of drug abuse in Ladakh in recent months.

Through targeted operations, the task force has also unearthed the alarming involvement of local youths, including juveniles and girls, in drug consumption, who are also doubling as drug peddlers. Investigations have revealed that several young consumers are also functioning as peddlers to finance their addiction. The involvement of youth, including juveniles and underage girls, has emerged as a matter of serious concern, underlining the need for intensified awareness campaigns, preventive interventions and community engagement.

The investigations have also pointed towards inter-state linkages, suggesting that supply chains extend beyond Ladakh. Further, instances of intravenous drug use have highlighted the potential risk of communicable diseases, making the issue not only a law-and-order concern but also a public health challenge.

During his interaction with religious organizations, civil society groups and other stakeholders, the Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena had directed strict action against drug peddlers and users, and called for dismantling the entire supply chain of narcotics operating in the region.

“The Administration of Ladakh has adopted a policy of zero tolerance towards drug abuse and narcotics trafficking. The early success of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force demonstrates our resolve to identify and dismantle the supply chain of narcotic substances and protect our youth from this menace. Drug abuse poses a serious threat to the social fabric of society, and we will continue to take firm action against those involved in trafficking,” said Saxena.

The L-G also appealed to the citizens, parents, educational institutions, religious leaders and civil society organizations to actively support the UT-Level Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) by sharing information, creating awareness and helping vulnerable youth stay away from narcotic substances.