Mirwaiz calls for united action to tackle drug menace in Valley

Hurriyat Conference chairman and Jamia Masjid’s chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Monday called for united action against drug addiction in Kashmir Valley, stating that mosque committees can collaborate and implement effective ways to tackle the menace.

Addressing a religious gathering in Srinagar, Mirwaiz emphasised the “need for collective action to improve societal conditions, particularly focusing on the escalating issue of drug addiction.”

Stating that that over 1.5 million individuals are affected by drug addiction in the region, Mirwaiz called for a united effort to combat the epidemic. He also pointed out that the vast network of mosques across the region could serve as pivotal centres in this fight. “Mosque committees can collaborate and implement effective ways to tackle drug addiction in every area,” he said, emphasising the power of community involvement.

Hurriyat chairman also expressed appreciation for the intensified efforts by the police to combat drug trafficking. While acknowledging the recent arrests of several drug dealers and the confiscation of their properties, Mirwaiz remarked, “It is encouraging to see the administration taking decisive steps. When good measures are taken for the welfare of our society, they should also be appreciated by all,” he said.

He also stressed upon unified proactive measures, leveraging both religious institutions and law enforcement in the battle against drug addiction and the importance of community and administrative synergy in fostering a safer, healthier society.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have intensified action against the illicit drug trade in South Kashmir and attached several residential and commercial properties of people found to be involved in the illicit trade.

On Monday, Anantnag Police attached a double-storied residential property under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA). The property, owned by Firdous Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Hugam Lonepora, Srigufwara, spanned one kanal and 10 marlas and is valued at approximately Rs 5 crore.