Avinash Azad
In a first-of-its-kind gesture, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the influential separatist leader and Chairman of Hurriyat Conference, has applauded the Jammu and Kashmir Police for their robust crackdown on the inter-state drug network. Breaking barriers, he emphasized that “good work by the State deserves acknowledgment and public support.”
Addressing a congregation at Masjid Ali Thani in Eidgah, Srinagar, Mirwaiz emphasized the pressing need for united action against the escalating problem of drug addiction, which affects over 1.5 million individuals in Jammu and Kashmir.
During his address, Mirwaiz stressed the role of community-driven initiatives, calling upon mosque committees and local communities to become proactive in addressing this societal issue.
“The vast network of mosques across the region can serve as pivotal centers to combat drug addiction,” he said, urging mosque committees to identify and support rehabilitation efforts for affected individuals.
Mirwaiz also acknowledged the recent crackdown by JKP on drug cartels, which has led to significant arrests and the seizure of properties linked to narcotics operations. “It is encouraging to see the administration taking decisive steps. When good measures are taken for the welfare of our society, they should be appreciated by all,” he remarked, highlighting the synergy between law enforcement and community efforts as key to addressing this challenge.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police have intensified their efforts against drug trafficking, recording substantial achievements this year. By the end of September, the police secured 150 convictions in narcotics-related cases and seized properties associated with the illegal trade.
The outgoing DGP J&K R.R. Swain in days before his retirement had said, “This steady improvement shows that despite challenges, our efforts are bearing fruit.” The anti-narcotics drive is part of a broader initiative to restore societal harmony and safeguard youth from the destructive consequences of drug abuse. JKP’s proactive measures, including awareness campaigns, community outreach, and legal actions, have garnered widespread support.
Mirwaiz Farooq underscored the critical importance of collaboration between religious institutions, law enforcement agencies, and civil society to address not just the symptoms but the root causes of drug addiction.
“Unified proactive measures, leveraging both religious institutions and law enforcement, are essential in the battle against this epidemic,” he said, urging the community to work collectively for a safer and healthier society. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq’s appreciation of JKP’s role reflects a shift towards acknowledging constructive efforts in the region.
It also serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of his father, Mirwaiz Moulvi Farooq, who was assassinated in May 1990. Notably, in May last year, the Special Investigation Agency (SIA) under Special ADGP CID J&K R.R. Swain brought justice to the absconding terrorists involved in Moulvi Farooq’s assassination, a testament to JKP’s dedication to ensuring peace and justice in the region.
