On L-G VK Saxena’s direction, Anti-Narcotics Task Force cracks down against drug menace in Ladakh.Apprehends drug consumers and peddlers within first week of operations.

On L-G VK Saxena’s direction, Anti-Narcotics Task Force cracks down against drug menace in Ladakh.Apprehends drug consumers and peddlers within first week of operations.L-G directs a zero-tolerance approach against drug peddlers and users
Leh, June 10: Following the directions of Lieutenant Governor, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, for zero-tolerance against drug trafficking and abuse in the Union Territory, the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) of Ladakh has launched a massive crackdown and apprehended drug peddlers and seized over 1.5 kg of charas in the first week of its establishment. The development assumes greater significance in the wake of 298 new cases of drug abuse in Ladakh in recent months.
Through targeted operations, the task force has also unearthed the alarming involvement of local youths, including juveniles and girls, in drug consumption, who are also doubling as drug peddlers. 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 Anti-Narcotics Task Force reflects L-G Shri 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 L-G 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 L-G Shri Saxena.
The L-G 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.