Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, July 26: Senior National Conference (JKNC) leader Rajesh Gupta has voiced serious concern over the growing drug menace in Jammu, linking it to the continued denial of Statehood to the region.
In a sharply worded statement, Gupta said the conversion of Jammu and Kashmir into a Union Territory post the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 has led to severe social instability.
He claimed that peaceful localities such as Janipur, Narwal, Dogra Hall, and Akhnoor are now witnessing a surge in narcotics like heroin, ganja and synthetic opioids. “The youth are falling prey to drugs, thefts are rising, and community support systems are breaking down,” he warned.
Gupta stressed that the region needs more than infrastructural development and slogans. “Jammu needs protection, policy focus, and above all, its own voice,” he asserted.
Accusing the Central Government of indifference, Gupta said that the delay in restoring Statehood is worsening the crisis. “This is no longer just a political demand-it is a social necessity,” he added.
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