IGP Kashmir vows to crush drug menace, promote youth engagement through sports

Anantnag, Nov 23: Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, Vidhi Kumar Birdi Wednesday said that the Jammu and Kashmir Police was committed to combat drug abuse and its adverse impact on society.

Speaking to media persons during the inaugural ceremony of a ‘Police Martyrs T20 Cricket Tournament’ in Anantnag, the IGP vowed to take stringent action against those involved in drug trafficking.

“Those who push drugs into our society and target our youth will face the full force of the law,” the IGP said.

Expressing concern over the rising drug addiction among youth, he stressed the need for collective and timely interventions to address this social challenge.

“Drug abuse is a grave threat to the fabric of our society, especially to our youth, who represent the future of this region,” the IGP said.

He highlighted the police's dual approach in tackling the issue: addressing the root causes of substance abuse while taking strict legal action against those propagating it.

The IGP stressed that initiatives like sports tournaments play a crucial role in providing youth with a constructive outlet.

“Through such activities, we aim to offer healthy alternatives, helping young people stay away from harmful distractions while channelising their energy into positive pursuits,” he said.

The IGP described sports as a transformative tool, promoting physical health, discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and leadership among youth.

“These events also help foster personal development and strengthen the relationship between the police and the community,” he said. “The Police Department is dedicated to building trust and mutual respect with the youth. By organising such initiatives, we aim to break barriers and ensure better communication and cooperation.”

Calling for collective action, the IGP urged families, communities, and local organisations to support such initiatives, which he described as crucial for nurturing a drug-free and progressive environment.

“By working together, we can ensure our youth have the opportunities they need to grow, succeed, and contribute positively to society. This is just the beginning of many efforts aimed at empowering our young generation,” he said.

The IGP said that the Police plan to increase the frequency of sports and other constructive activities across districts to ensure every young person has access to these opportunities.

“We are committed to making these initiatives not just about entertainment or competition but essential tools for building a healthy, active, and empowered community,” he said.

The T20 cricket tournament, inaugurated by the IGP, witnessed enthusiastic participation from local youth.

Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in a well-organised and spirited event.

“We are determined to continue supporting our youth through similar platforms, fostering an environment where they can thrive and stay away from negative influences,” the IGP said.

DIG South Kashmir, Javid Iqbal Matoo; SSP Anantnag, G V Sundeep, other Police officials besides Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Syed Fakhrudin Hamid were also present on the occasion.