A sharp surge in drug abuse cases across Ladakh has triggered serious concern within the administration, with Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena warning that the growing involvement of minors and young girls in substance abuse poses a dangerous threat to society. Calling the trend “deeply disturbing,” the LG announced a crackdown on drug traffickers and appealed to citizens to actively support the fight against narcotics.
The LG’s appeal came amid reports of 298 new drug abuse cases, raising fears over the future of the region’s youth.
In a post on X, LG Saxena wrote; “An alarming rise in cases of drug abuse has emerged in Ladakh, putting almost every age group at a grave risk of their lives. What is more disturbing is the rapidly growing indulgence of minors and girls in substance abuse”.
“As many as 298 new cases of drug abuse, including 101 cases of opioids and 40 cases of cannabis and poly-substance abuse, have been reported in the recent months,” he added.
“I have directed DGP to ensure strict enforcement against drug menace in the Union Territory and launch a crackdown against drug traffickers and eliminate their hideouts. Strict action will be taken against anybody found indulging in drug trafficking or its consumption”, the LG wrote.
“I appeal to all social, religious, cultural, political and educational institutions and their leaders to create awareness and caution among parents and youths against the horrific menace of drug abuse that can destroy the future of our children”.
“I also urge every citizen of Ladakh to report any incident of drug trafficking or drug abuse that comes to their knowledge”, the LG added.