Chief Secretary chairs 9th UT level NCORD meeting to combat narcotics in J&K

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo presided over the 9th UT level Apex committee meeting of NCORD (Narcotics Control Bureau and Coordination Centre) to enhance coordination and strategize efforts in combating the illicit trade and supply of narcotics in Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting was attended by key officials including the Principal Secretary of Home Department, Special DG Crime, ADGP Jammu, Commissioner Secretaries from various departments, Divisional Commissioners of Kashmir and Jammu, Secretaries of RDD, Education, and Health, IGP Kashmir, Deputy Commissioners, and representatives from NCB, SIA, Prosecution, BSF, and other senior civil and police officers.

Chief Secretary Dulloo reviewed the progress on previous decisions taken during the January 1st meeting, particularly focusing on the establishment of special NDPS courts and the expansion of drug de-addiction facilities across districts.

Dulloo emphasized the importance of pharmacies adhering to regulations, such as installing CCTVs and implementing computerized billing to prevent misuse of psychotropic substances. He instructed strict compliance and regular monitoring of CCTV footage.

The Chief Secretary also inquired about the number of detentions and successful convictions in the past year, alongside the status of property attachments related to drug dealers. He stressed the need for capacity building of Investigation Officers (IOs) to improve case preparation and conviction rates.

Highlighting the vulnerability of youngsters to this social threat, Dulloo emphasized enhanced vigilance around educational institutions and other hotspots. He urged swift action against individuals involved in drug trade and supply.

Discussions also focused on enhancing drug de-addiction facilities and long-term rehabilitation of victims, in collaboration with departments like Social Welfare, Mission Youth, and RDD. Dulloo proposed implementing a reward policy for providing actionable information on illegal drug activities.

The meeting concluded with a call for increased coordination among departments to eradicate narcotics trade and achieve a ‘Nasha Mukht’ (drug-free) J&K. Special DG Crime Deepak Kumar presented updates, highlighting improvements in detention and conviction rates through quality investigations and effective deterrent measures.

Law enforcement agencies reported significant seizures this year, including heroin, brown sugar, charas, poppy straw, bhang, capsules, tablets, injections, and syrup bottles seized across J&K.

The concerted efforts of the NCORD meeting underscore the government’s commitment to combating the drug menace and ensuring a safer environment for all residents of Jammu and Kashmir.