Over 1.5 kg charas seized in Ladakh as newly formed ANTF springs into action

Reaffirming its zero-tolerance approach towards drug abuse, the Ladakh Administration has intensified its campaign against narcotics through the newly formed Anti-Narcotics Task Force, which has seized over 1.5 kg of charas and arrested several drug peddlers. The success of the task force has also exposed a worrying trend of juveniles and young girls being drawn into drug consumption and trafficking, prompting calls for greater public awareness and community participation.

The crackdown, launched under the directions of Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, comes amid growing concerns over rising drug addiction cases in the Union Territory.

Investigations have revealed that several young consumers are also functioning as peddlers to finance their addiction. The involvement of youth, including juveniles and underage girls, has emerged as a matter of serious concern, underlining the need for intensified awareness campaigns, preventive interventions and community engagement.

The swift action by the newly constituted ANTF reflects LG Saxena’s firm commitment to combating the growing menace of drug abuse and trafficking in the region through focused enforcement, intelligence-led operations and community participation.

The investigations have also pointed towards inter-state linkages, suggesting that supply chains extend beyond Ladakh. Further, instances of intravenous drug use have highlighted the potential risk of communicable diseases, making the issue not only a law-and-order concern but also a public health challenge.

During his interaction with religious organisations, civil society groups and other stakeholders, the LG had directed strict action against drug peddlers and users and called for dismantling the entire supply chain of narcotics operating in the region.

“The Administration of Ladakh has adopted a policy of zero tolerance towards drug abuse and narcotics trafficking. The early success of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force demonstrates our resolve to identify and dismantle the supply chain of narcotic substances and protect our youth from this menace. Drug abuse poses a serious threat to the social fabric of society, and we will continue to take firm action against those involved in trafficking while simultaneously strengthening awareness, prevention and rehabilitation efforts. Our objective is to ensure a safe, healthy and drug-free Ladakh,” said Saxena.

The LG also appealed to the citizens, parents, educational institutions, religious leaders and civil society organisations to actively support the UT-Level Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (NMBA) by sharing information, creating awareness and helping vulnerable youth stay away from narcotic substances.