Kupwara, Oct 28: Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Abhishek Sharma, along with SSP Kupwara Sudhanshu Dhama and SSP Handwara Sajad Khaliq, on Wednesday chaired a district-level meeting of the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD), calling for coordinated action against drug trafficking and substance abuse.
The meeting reviewed the drug situation, ongoing enforcement measures and the status of rehabilitation facilities in the district.
The Deputy Commissioner directed the police to take stringent legal action against drug peddlers. He also asked the Assistant Regional aTransport Officer (ARTO) to initiate proceedings for cancellation of driving licences of persons involved in drug-related cases, as per applicable rules.
The Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department and the Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD) were directed to examine allegations against government contractors allegedly involved in narcotics-related activities and initiate appropriate proceedings under the rules.
The Health Department, in coordination with the police, was asked to inspect all de-addiction centres and take action against unauthorised facilities. The Assistant Drug Controller was directed to monitor the supply and distribution of medicines to prevent the misuse of prescription drugs.
As part of preventive measures, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) was asked to procure testing kits to screen commercial drivers across the district. The Deputy Commissioner also directed controlling officers to identify government employees struggling with substance addiction and facilitate their rehabilitation at certified de-addiction facilities.
To engage youth in constructive activities, Sub-Divisional Magistrates were asked to expedite the development of playfields, including volleyball courts, in every panchayat.
Educational institutions were directed to install CCTV cameras at vulnerable locations and organise mass awareness programmes. The Chief Education Officer was asked to identify eligible schools for declaration as drug-free institutions.
The Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for sustained administrative vigilance, coordinated departmental action and public participation to protect youth and make Kupwara drug-free.
The meeting was attended by ADC Handwara, ACR, SDMs, ACD, CMO, CEO, Assistant Drug Controller, ARTO, college principals, Tehsildars and other senior civil and police officers.
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