Bandipora, May 30: District Magistrate Bandipora, Indu Kanwal Chib, along with Senior Superintendent of Police Ajaz Ahmad Zargar, on Friday chaired a meeting of the District Level NCORD Committee to review the implementation of anti-drug measures and efforts to curb illicit drug trafficking in the district.
During the meeting, the SSP presented a detailed review of cases registered under the NDPS and PIT-NDPS Acts across various police stations. He also briefed the committee on the attachment and freezing of properties belonging to drug peddlers, demolition of illegal structures, and action taken in cases involving commercial quantities of narcotics.
The Deputy Director Prosecution informed the meeting about the status of NDPS cases, acquittals, bail applications and legal challenges pending before courts. Emphasis was laid on ensuring effective prosecution of drug-related offences.
Reviewing enforcement measures, the District Magistrate stressed the need for strict action against drug peddlers and directed authorities to expedite the suspension or cancellation of driving licences, passports, contractor cards, arms licences and other documents of individuals involved in narcotics-related crimes. She also called for greater inter-departmental coordination to sustain the anti-drug campaign.
The meeting was informed that CCTV surveillance has been strengthened in educational institutions and identified drug-prone areas. The DM directed the Education Department and principals of Government Degree Colleges to ensure installation of CCTV cameras in all schools, colleges and coaching centres, particularly in vulnerable and shadow areas.
Officials from the Education Department and higher educational institutions highlighted various awareness programmes conducted under the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, including debates, seminars, essay competitions and student interaction sessions aimed at sensitising youth about the dangers of drug abuse.
The Rural Development Department was directed to intensify awareness campaigns at the grassroots level by organising regular anti-drug programmes in wards and panchayats across the district.
The Excise Department briefed the meeting on action taken against illicit poppy cultivation and destruction drives carried out in different parts of the district.
The Assistant Drug Controller informed the committee about inspections conducted at medical shops and action taken against violators. The DM stressed strict implementation of computerised billing systems and installation of CCTV cameras in pharmacies and medical establishments to prevent misuse of scheduled drugs.
The ARTO and Assistant Labour Commissioner were directed to further strengthen awareness and enforcement measures within their respective sectors to support the anti-drug campaign.
The meeting also reviewed the implementation of the Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA). The District Magistrate directed concerned departments to hold zonal-level meetings and ensure strict monitoring around educational institutions and public places.
Departments also presented progress reports on the ongoing 100-day Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, highlighting awareness drives, mega rallies, “Dosti Discussions” and other IEC activities conducted across the district.
The DM emphasized the need for coordinated efforts, continuous monitoring and active public participation to effectively combat drug abuse and narcotics trafficking in Bandipora.
The meeting was attended by officers from various departments, including Health, Education, Revenue, Child Welfare, Excise and Anti-Tobacco Task Force, while several officials joined virtually.
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