Jammu, Feb 2, KNT: Minister Satish Sharma on Monday described drug addiction as the biggest challenge confronting Jammu and Kashmir, stressing that the menace can only be tackled through a collective and sustained effort by society and the administration.
Talking to reporters outside the Legislative Assembly in Jammu, the minister said drug abuse has emerged as a serious threat cutting across social and economic boundaries. “This is the biggest challenge. We have to see how to tackle this problem collectively,” Sharma said, adding that the issue cannot be viewed in isolation.
He said the drug network is not limited to street-level operators alone and alleged that elements from white-collar sections, politics, and even a small fraction of the police force may also be involved. “Whether it is white-collar crime, politicians, or even one percent within the police, this needs to be addressed firmly,” he said.
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The minister also spoke about governance challenges, stating that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is currently working with limited resources. He recalled that there was a period when the Centre extended wholehearted financial support to Jammu and Kashmir, which helped strengthen development initiatives.
Despite the constraints, Sharma expressed confidence about the future of the Union Territory. “Jammu and Kashmir will be on top under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah,” he said.
Responding to a separate question, Sharma made a remark on regional geopolitics, stating that Pakistan is skilled in the strategy it has been following for the last 75 years, while adding that India has no match in cricket.[KNT]
