Convener News Desk
Bandipora, Dec 17: Deputy Inspector General of Police, North Kashmir Range, Maqsood-ul-Zaman, on Wednesday said that combating the drug menace, terrorism and rising social crimes remains the top priority of the police, asserting that an aggressive and comprehensive strategy has been adopted to dismantle criminal and narcotics networks operating in the region.
Speaking to media persons after a public interaction programme in Hajin area of Bandipora district, the DIG said police have registered scores of cases related to narcotics and significantly intensified operations to uproot the drug trade from society. He said the focus is not confined to arresting drug peddlers alone but also includes tracing and confiscating movable and immovable properties acquired through proceeds of the illegal drug trade.
“All properties procured through drug money will be seized,” the DIG said, adding that investigations are underway to identify and attach assets linked to individuals involved in narcotics trafficking. Such measures, he said, are aimed at breaking the economic backbone of drug syndicates.
Earlier in the day, DIG Maqsood-ul-Zaman chaired a Public Darbar at Hajin, attended by SSP Bandipora Ajaz Zargar, SDPO Sumbal and other senior officers. People from various walks of life, including elders, youth and students, participated in the programme and raised issues related to law and order, justice and daily civic concerns.
Addressing the gathering, the DIG said that Public Darbars are not meant merely for registering complaints but serve as a platform to directly connect with people, understand their problems and ensure timely redressal through coordinated efforts of the police and civil administration. He assured that police stations remain open to every citizen and that issues will be addressed without discrimination.
“Our objective is to protect society, ensure justice and make citizens feel secure,” he said, reiterating that the police and administration stand shoulder to shoulder with the public.
Highlighting the growing menace of drug abuse, the DIG termed it a “silent poison” destroying the physical and mental health of youth and pushing families into distress. He said drugs not only ruin individuals but also weaken society and the future of the nation, urging parents to monitor their children, teachers to guide students properly and youth to make responsible choices.
On militancy and terrorism, the DIG said that the prevailing peace in the region is the result of joint efforts of security forces and the public. He appealed to people to remain vigilant and cooperate with police by sharing information about suspicious activities to maintain peace and stability.
The DIG also spoke about the new criminal laws, stating that these reforms have been introduced to strengthen the justice system, ensure speedy trials and deal firmly with organised crime, terrorism and drug networks. He stressed the need for greater public awareness so citizens understand their rights and duties under the new legal framework.
Emphasising community partnership, he said police action alone cannot eliminate social evils. “Public awareness, cooperation and unity are essential. When people and police work together, no force can harm society,” he said, adding that the aim of policing is to build trust, not fear.
SSP Bandipora Ajaz Zargar, in his address, highlighted the importance of community policing and youth engagement, assuring strict action against criminals and drug peddlers while maintaining fairness and transparency. On the occasion, locals raised several genuine issues, which were patiently heard and noted by the officials present.
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