Tool of Destabilization

Narcoterrorism, the symbiotic relationship between drug trafficking and terrorism, has emerged as a significant challenge in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). This nexus is not only fueling violence but also destabilizing the UTs socio-political fabric.

Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing an alarming rise in narco-terrorism, which is emerging as a significant security threat in Union Territory. The nexus between drug trafficking and terrorism is becoming increasingly apparent, with Pakistan being accused of using this unholy alliance to fund and sustain terror activities in the Valley. This has raised concerns among security agencies and the general populace alike.

In recent years, there has been a marked increase in drug seizures along the Line of Control (LoC) and hinterland both in Kashmir as well as Jammu, underscoring the growing influence of drug syndicates linked to terrorist networks.

Investigating agencies J&K Police, National Investigation Agency (NIA) and State Investigation Agency have time and again said that Pakistan-based terror groups are actively using the proceeds from drug trafficking to finance their operations in J&K.

Top brass of security agencies in J&K have many times said that narco-terror has emerged as a formidable challenge in Jammu and Kashmir. “Pakistan is exploiting the drug trade to weaken our youth and destabilize the region. We are addressing this issue with the utmost seriousness."

The impact of narco-terrorism is not limited to the financing of terror activities. The widespread availability of drugs, particularly heroin, is having a devastating effect on the youth of J&K. Some time ago a surveys by different health care and non-government organizations had revealed that nearly lakhs people in Kashmir are struggling with drug addiction, a situation that Pakistan is exploiting to radicalize and recruit vulnerable individuals.

The rise in drug trafficking in J&K is also linked to the increase in opium production in Afghanistan. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), drug production in Afghanistan rose by 38% in 2021. Pakistan, with its historical ties to the drug trade, is reportedly exploiting this situation to push narcotics into J&K, further fueling the cycle of violence.

Security forces have intensified their crackdown on drug smuggling, resulting in significant seizures and arrests. Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently highlighted these efforts, stating.

Despite these efforts, the battle against narco-terrorism is far from over. The security forces face challenges such as the use of cryptocurrency by terrorists to fund their operations and the inadequacy of current anti-drone technology to intercept smuggling attempts along the LoC.

Experts recommend improving the jurisdiction of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to effectively track and halt the flow of narco-money. Additionally, there is a pressing need for advanced anti-drone systems along the India-Pakistan border to prevent the infiltration of drugs and arms.

The government has taken several steps to address the drug menace in J&K. Under Operation Sadbhawna, the Indian Army has established de-addiction counselling centres and organized awareness camps to educate the youth about the dangers of drug abuse. Furthermore, J&K is set to introduce a Drug De-Addiction Policy, which will provide a structured approach to combating drug addiction in the region.

As the situation evolves, it is crucial for all stakeholders to work together to curb the spread of narco-terrorism in J&K. The consequences of failing to do so could be catastrophic, not only for the security of the region but for the future of its youth.

Terrorist organizations, facing financial constraints due to international sanctions and tighter monitoring of traditional funding channels, have increasingly turned to drug trafficking as a lucrative alternative.

In J&K, this has led to a disturbing rise in the smuggling of narcotics across the Line of Control (LoC), primarily from Pakistan. The drugs, often heroin and cannabis, are trafficked into the region, where they are either sold locally or routed to other parts of India and beyond. The proceeds are then funnelled back into funding terror operations.

The influx of drugs has had a devastating impact on the local population, particularly the youth. Addiction rates have soared, leading to a public health crisis and eroding the social fabric of communities. The easy availability of drugs has also increased criminal activities, as addicts resort to theft and violence to sustain their habits.

Moreover, the involvement of local youth in drug peddling and trafficking has provided terrorist organizations with a ready pool of recruits. These individuals, often trapped by addiction or economic necessity, are coerced into participating in terror activities, further perpetuating the cycle of violence.

The government and security forces have intensified efforts to curb narcoterrorism in J&K. This includes enhanced border surveillance, coordinated operations to dismantle drug trafficking networks, and the use of technology, such as GPS trackers, to monitor and intercept drug consignments. Additionally, there is a growing focus on de-addiction programs and public awareness campaigns to prevent drug abuse.

(The author is senior staffer Greater Kashmir)