Srinagar: Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Friday expressed concern at the disturbing reports about the growth of the drug mafia in Kashmir Valley and attempts to involve the youth of Kashmir in these activities.
A spokesperson of the traders’ body stated that drug use had serious mental, physical, cultural and social consequences which, if not controlled, can have a catastrophic and traumatic impact on the entire society. The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as part of its social responsibly, has been regularly voicing its concern in this regard.
“We are pleased to note that the Jammu and Kashmir Police under the leadership of Inspector General of Police Vijay Kumar, an honest and upright officer, has for the first time seriously cracked down on notorious drug peddlers and made huge busts which include seizure of astronomical amount of cash and drugs. A Special Narcotics Cell has reportedly been recently being constituted,” the spokesman, adding, “We would urge the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to use the cash so seized for upgradation of the drug de-addiction centres.”
The spokesman further said: “But the war on drugs alongside consistent efforts also needs us to protect those who, without caring from their lives, dare to raise their voices. One such voice belongs to a young girl from Sopore whose brother is a victim of the drug peddlers. Her efforts have led to the Police cracking down on the smugglers and local people of the area coming out in her support. Her voice appears to have antagonized the drug lords and their patrons and she has reportedly been attacked in her home.”
The spokesman so far what emerges from the reports on the social media is that her only crime is that despite being from a deprived background and helpless, her desire to protect her brother has blinded her to the risks she has exposed herself to and she has dared to boldly raise her voice. “Prima face, it appears to be an act of extraordinary valour.”
In the interest of justice, the traders body urged the Chief Justice of High Court and the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to immediately provide adequate protection to her and her family.
