Authorities seek enhanced vigilance against drug peddling in Shopian

Shopian, Sep 28: The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Shopian, Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar, who is also the chairperson of the District Level Committee (DLC) under the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD), chaired the monthly meeting with concerned members at the Mini Secretariat today.

During the meeting, a thorough discussion was held on various issues related to the incidence of drug addiction, the declaration of Nasha Mukht Panchayats, computerized billing at pharmacy shops, dispensing of scheduled drugs, and the destruction of illicit poppy and wild bhang in the district.

At the outset, the DC was briefed by departmental heads about the work done during the past year.

Additional SP Showkat Ahmad informed that 49 cases under the NDPS Act have been registered in the district, of which 37 cases have been challaned, involving the arrest of 56 individuals and the seizure of six properties this year.

It was also revealed that the destruction of wild bhang on 155 kanals was conducted, along with the destruction of six kanals of poppy cultivation through coordinated efforts among the departments.

Officers from the Panchayat, Drug, Social Welfare, Education, and Excise departments reported on the declaration of drug-free Panchayats, vigilance in pharmacies, awareness campaigns, IEC activities, and the destruction of wild bhang and poppy in the district.

The DC requested action taken reports from all stakeholder departments regarding measures implemented to control the drug menace and the destruction of illicit poppy and cannabis in the district.

The DC emphasized the need for intensified crackdowns on drug peddling and the rehabilitation of victims, along with increased awareness efforts, sensitization camps in schools and colleges, student competitions, and other outreach activities to raise awareness among the public.

He also called for strict vigilance in pharmacies dispensing scheduled drugs, advocating for regular inspections in the district.

He urged everyone to work in a coordinated manner and sought the active cooperation of local communities in combating the menace.

The meeting also discussed the roles of the police, Social Welfare, Education, Health, and other departments in drug demand reduction strategies, rehabilitation, and mental health counseling.

The meeting was attended by ADC Dr. Zakir Hussain Faaz, ACR, SDM, DIO, CMO, CEO, Tehsildars, SHOs, and other officers.