“We are breaking the chain of the drug trade at every single link. Whether it’s cross-border smugglers, peddlers or the terror financiers- there is no safe haven. Our agencies are hunting down every narco-terrorist and permanently dismantling their networks,” the Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha said on Saturday. He observed that over the last nearly two months, citizens from all walks of life, have walked streets across the Union Territory, shared the pain of affected families, and energized our youth.
“Our goal is to foster a grassroots resistance against drug abuse and end narco-terrorism,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor was addressing the public rally at Kishtwar. The campaign has so far covered 19 districts of Jammu Kashmir, reinforcing a collective commitment to eradicate drugs from villages and towns.
“For 56 days I have pursued a single mission of eliminating every drug smuggler and narco-terrorist from this land. Narco-terrorists and drug smugglers, whether in Pulwama or Ramban, Kulgam or Kishtwar, must understand this truth that there will be no mercy for those who ruin the future of our young generation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He said under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there is no mercy for narco-terrorists.
“We are ensuring that drug addicts who seek a path to recovery are provided all possible assistance and brought back to the mainstream with compassion and dignity. But compassion cannot be wasted on narco-terrorists who profit from others’ ruin, who thrive on destruction, who aim to drain the life from Kishtwar’s villages and towns. My objective is very clear that ruthless action will be taken against narco-terrorists while unwavering protection will be ensured for the innocent,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor said that although J&K Drug-Free Campaign is scheduled for 100 days, it marks the start of a much larger fight. He said eliminating this threat requires a marathon effort.
“It is a war of years, not a battle of weeks. Victory demands a unified, round-the-clock commitment. By mobilizing a whole-of-society approach, we will ensure that J&K’s soil is completely cleared of drug smugglers and drug peddlers. During the Padyatra across Jammu Kashmir, I have witnessed the incredible courage of young men and women breaking the shackles of addiction to reclaim their lives. That is why we cannot fail. This campaign is a matter of the soul of Jammu Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor said in order to safeguard youth, the administration is embedding the spirit of this mission into the very fabric of our neighborhoods, equipping communities to recognize the warning signs, intervene early, and shield each other.
“Our teachers, Panchayat Mahila Samitis, religious leaders, and civil society groups are the torchbearers of this movement, standing united to ensure the shadow of addiction never finds a foothold in Kishtwar and across Jammu Kashmir. This is a defining moment for the future of our children. The people have spoken with one voice that narco‑terrorists must be driven from this land,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Drug-Free J&K Campaign Reaches 19th District, LG Manoj Sinha Leads Padyatra In Kishtwar
Mehbooba Speaks To JP Nadda On AIIMS Awantipora, Seeks Early Completion Amid Political Row
Jun 6: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday said she spoke with Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda and urged him to expedite the ongoing work on AIIMS Awantipora so that the project is completed without further delay.
In a post on X, as per news agency JKNS, Mufti said Nadda assured her that the premier healthcare institution would be completed within the stipulated timeframe.
“Spoke with Union Health Minister JP Nadda ji and requested him to expedite the ongoing work at AIIMS Awantipora so that it doesn’t get delayed any further. He was kind enough to assure me about its completion well on time,” she said.
Mufti added that although the team working on the project was “toiling day and night,” the deteriorating healthcare scenario across Jammu and Kashmir made it imperative that AIIMS Awantipora becomes operational at the earliest.
“Undoubtedly the team assigned here is toiling day and night but given how healthcare is crumbling across J&K, it’s imperative AIIMS Awantipora is operational soon. It will provide much-needed relief and quality medical services,” she said. (JKNS)
Anti-Terror Operation Enters Fourteenth Day In J&K’s Rajouri
A joint anti-terror operation by the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF has entered its fourteenth day in the dense forests of Gambhir Mughlan and Dorimal in the Manjakote sector of Rajouri district. Security forces are continuing to track suspected terrorists believed to be hiding in the region.
The security forces were seen checking the ID cards of travellers and locals, conducting intensive search operations in the region.
The operation, codenamed Operation Sheruwali, was launched following intelligence inputs indicating the presence of suspected terrorists in the region. Officials said the move aims to trap the suspects within the designated zones while search teams intensify their operations. (Agencies)
Cockroach Janta Party Founder Dipke Joins Students, Youth In Jantar Mantar Protest
Abhijeet Dipke, founder of the online movement Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), joined the planned demonstration at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on Saturday, organised amid heavy security.
Hundreds of people, mostly young individuals, turned out for the demonstration, many of whom were wearing cockroach masks and holding flowers. School students were also seen attending the protest along with their parents.
The majority of the participants were a mix of school and college students, along with young professionals.
Scores of students gathered at the venue, chanting slogans and demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Dipke, who arrived in Delhi early in the day, had urged supporters to maintain discipline and ensure that the protest remains peaceful.
Activist Sonam Wangchuk, who has also expressed support for the protest, stated that he would undertake a six-week fast if Dipke is arrested. In a post on X, Dipke expressed excitement about meeting supporters at Jantar Mantar and encouraged them to bring a book and the national flag. He also urged participants to offer flowers to police personnel as a “gesture of compassion and gratitude,” emphasising that the movement should be led with “love and peace.” The protest has been organised by the CJP, a youth-led online movement demanding accountability for alleged irregularities in examinations and recruitment tests, including NEET, CBSE, CUET, and SSC examinations.
Security was heightened across the national capital in anticipation of the protest. Police officials stated that additional personnel had been deployed at Indira Gandhi International Airport, border entry points, and other sensitive locations.
More than 1,000 police personnel have been allocated for deployment throughout New Delhi and other strategic locations as a precaution. In the run-up to the protest, the CJP had circulated guidelines urging participants to maintain non-violent conduct and avoid confrontation. Dipke’s latest appeal reiterated those instructions, emphasising respectful engagement with law enforcement personnel during the demonstration. (AGENCIES)
LG Manoj Sinha Joins Nasha-Mukt J&K Campaign In Ganderbal
Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, today joined ‘Nasha-Mukt Jammu Kashmir Campaign’ in Ganderbal. He also joined people from all walks of life in Padyatra and addressed a powerful crowd.
“Having now visited every district in Kashmir Valley & stood with each march, I can say that a historic movement against narco-terrorism has risen,” the Lieutenant Governor said in his address to the people on the occasion.
He said in the past 55 days, 1,036 FIRs have been registered,1,128 drug smugglers have been arrested, more than 100 properties of smugglers have been attached, nearly 700 driving licenses have been cancelled, and recommendations have been made to cancel passports of 130 drug smugglers.
“Fifty-five days ago, from the soil of Jammu, I declared that enough is enough. What began as a war against drugs and narco-terrorism has now ignited into a true people’s movement, a movement born of courage, sustained by spirit, and driven by the collective will of ordinary citizens. Today, that resolve stands stronger than ever,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor assured proper rehabilitation of those who have fallen into drug addiction.
“With compassion and dignity, we will help them return to the mainstream of society. Through treatment, counselling, and new employment opportunities, we are opening new doors. People must remember that this is not simply a government programme, but it is a social revolution. Together, we will ensure that no drug smugglers or peddlers ever find a place in Jammu Kashmir.
Fifty-five days ago, I stood on Jammu’s soil and declared that we would free our children from the poison of drugs, protect our families from being torn apart by drug addiction, and refuse to let our people become hostages to narco-terrorists who profit from suffering and funding terrorism with their black money. We have launched a war against narco-terrorists, who seek to destroy the future of our youth,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor observed that in every march across Jammu Kashmir, he spoke about how drugs are destroying the future of people, robbing them of their ability, their dreams, and their dignity and how the proceeds from drug smuggling is used in buying weapons, and spreading terrorism in Jammu Kashmir.
“This is not simply a matter of ordinary crime but it is also a question of national security and a direct threat to the very survival of our society. The narco-terrorists, whether sitting in neighbouring countries or operating inside Jammu Kashmir, are enemies of our people. They are enemies of our children. They are enemies of our progress. Let me make this clear that narco-terrorists operating in Jammu Kashmir will have to pay a heavy price,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor further observed that the administration will ensure that those who have harmed our youth face justice so severe that the world will remember their punishment.
The Lieutenant Governor called upon mothers, sisters, and daughters to rise as protectors of our villages, cities and neighbourhoods. He also called upon youth of Jammu Kashmir to stand as guardians of their schools and colleges.
“I promise to the people that narco-terrorists will no longer find refuge. We will hunt them down. Narco-Terrorists days are numbered. Their networks will be dismantled, one by one. This is my oath, my solemn promise that every narco-terrorist will answer for their crimes and their sins,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor launched Sindh Samvad, a podcast series and also felicitated the winners of various competitions organised under the Nasha Mukt Jammu Kashmir Abhiyaan.
Won’t Tolerate Demographic Changes In West Bengal, Tripura, Bihar: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said the government will not tolerate demographic changes in West Bengal, Tripura and Bihar, asserting that the Centre is taking steps to bridge gaps in guarding the country’s borders.
Shah, addressing BSF personnel at Lankamura Border Outpost in Tripura, also said that the government’s “smart border” project is in the final stage.
“Demographic changes in West Bengal, Tripura and Bihar will not be tolerated… The Centre is making all efforts to bridge the gaps in guarding international borders,” the home minister said.
“The concept of ‘smart border’ will be implemented in seven to eight places of the country as a pilot project,” he said.
The new security grid will include cutting-edge tech, local administration and border sentinels, Shah added. (Agencies)
Jammu And Kashmir Epitome Of ‘Sarva Dharma Sambhav’: LG Manoj Sinha
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday said Jammu & Kashmir has for centuries represented the spirit of “Sarva Dharma Sambhav” and remains one of the finest examples of coexistence and communal harmony in the world.
Addressing the ‘Rishivar’ Inter-Faith Conference at SKICC Srinagar, the Lieutenant Governor said the essence of harmony and mutual respect has been deeply rooted in Indian civilisation since ancient times.
LG Sinha said the oldest scripture, Rigveda, mentions two Sanskrit words, “Justam” and “Devebhut,” symbolising harmony and the divine light present in all human beings.
He said the Rigveda teaches that the Almighty harmonised the virtues and light of every individual in society without discrimination.
“If one wants to witness the clearest glimpse of this philosophy, it can be seen in Jammu & Kashmir, which for centuries has remained home to almost all major religions,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor said that while many nations across the world began speaking about coexistence much later, “Sarva Dharma Sambhav” has remained an integral part of India’s civilisational thought since ancient times.
He said coexistence was not merely an idea in India, but a way of life thousands of years ago, adding that Indian traditions have always respected diverse beliefs and schools of thought.
Referring to Sanatan Dharma, Sinha said it is among the world’s oldest faith traditions, with roots dating back over 8,000 years.
“Despite facing many struggles throughout history, Sanatan Dharma survived because it laid emphasis on coexistence, respect for all beliefs and acceptance of diversity,” he said.
The LG said scholars and researchers across the world agree that the philosophy of “Sarva Dharma Sambhav” emerged from the principles of Sanatan Dharma.
Quoting the Atharva Veda, he said ancient sages envisioned a society where people of different faiths, beliefs and consciousness lived together like members of one harmonious family.
He further said the Yajurveda, composed nearly 1,400 to 2,000 years before Christ, preached the idea of viewing every individual with friendship and mutual respect.
Sinha also quoted the Bhagavad Gita, saying Lord Krishna had declared that people approach the Almighty through different paths and the divine fulfils everyone according to their faith and devotion.
Highlighting Kashmir’s historical legacy, the Lieutenant Governor said historians and Rajatarangini mention that Srinagar was established by Emperor Ashoka, who strongly promoted the ideals of communal harmony and religious tolerance.
He said Ashoka had inscribed on stone edicts that a person who glorifies his own religion while insulting another religion actually harms his own faith the most.
“Respecting other religions enhances the dignity of one’s own religion as well,” he said, while referring to the teachings of Buddhism and Jainism.
The LG said India had shown the world the path of peace through its ideas and actions long before many modern civilisations emerged.
He said various faiths, including Christianity, Islam and Sufism, later influenced Indian philosophy, while Sanatan Dharma’s message of coexistence continued to inspire societies globally.
Sinha said Jammu & Kashmir stands as a living example of this inclusive philosophy.
He said before the arrival of Islam and Sufism in Kashmir, philosopher Vasugupta had propagated Shiv Sutras and spiritual teachings centred on universal consciousness.
Referring to Kalhana’s Rajatarangini, the LG said the text mentions that there is not even “a tiny piece of land in Jammu & Kashmir devoid of pilgrimage and sacredness.”
He also quoted mystic poet Lal Ded, saying she preached against divisions between Hindus and Muslims and urged people to recognise their true self and humanity.
Sinha said Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani (Nund Rishi) greatly strengthened social harmony and unity among different traditions in Kashmir.
“Different faiths have found their finest confluence in Jammu & Kashmir. Such a beautiful blend of traditions is rarely seen elsewhere in the world,” he said.
The LG referred to the Rishi-Sufi tradition and quoted Nund Rishi’s message of transforming swords into tools for cultivation and peace.
Quoting the Rigveda again, he said society progresses when people share common goals, collective harmony and unity of thought.
“Humanity can progress only when all sections of society move together for collective welfare,” he said.
Sinha said “Sarva Dharma Sambhav” remains India’s most precious gift to humanity and must be continuously nurtured to strengthen unity and prosperity.
He said meaningful social transformation begins with individual conduct and such inter-faith dialogues help strengthen harmony in society.
Referring to the Mahabharata in the context of Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor spoke about the “struggle against injustice” and said duties and responsibilities evolve according to circumstances.
He said while people may follow different religions and traditions, “today there is only one supreme dharma (religion) for all citizens, and that is the Constitution of India.”
The LG said every public servant and citizen must work according to the Indian Constitution irrespective of personal beliefs.
Speaking about the migration of Kashmiri Pandits, Sinha said ordinary Kashmiris were not responsible for what happened in the Valley.
He also highlighted the participation of Jammu & Kashmir in nationwide celebrations marking 150 years of “Vande Mataram.”
The Lieutenant Governor said despite accounting for only around one percent of India’s population, Jammu & Kashmir secured the top position among all States and Union Territories in all three phases of a national programme organised by the Union Ministry of Culture.
He said several districts of Jammu & Kashmir, including Kulgam and Baramulla, featured among the country’s top-performing districts during the campaign.
“In all the three rounds, Jammu & Kashmir ranked number one nationally,” he said.
Sinha added that many people outside fail to understand the ground realities of Kashmir and asserted that Kashmiris possess a better understanding and awareness of India than often perceived.
Referring to the anti-drug campaign launched on April 11, the Lieutenant Governor said the public response and cooperation received during the drive was unprecedented.
“I have not seen such overwhelming public support in many years,” he said.
He appealed to people to continue supporting the anti-drug movement and expressed confidence that with sustained collective efforts, the menace could be significantly curbed within the next 100 days.
“I request everyone to extend their cooperation and support,” he added. (KNO)
21 Killed In Fire In South Delhi Hotel, Several Foreigners Among Those Dead
A massive fire broke out in a bed and breakfast hotel in south Delhi’s Malviya Nagar on Wednesday, killing at least 21 people.
Several of those killed are foreigners, mainly from Central Asia and Africa, officials said.
Earlier in the day, officials said the fire started in Lemon Green Restaurant at 8.45 am. Police later clarified that the blaze was actually at the Flourish Stay B&B in Hauz Rani in the congested Malviya Nagar area.
More than 40 people were rescued and rushed to hospital where 21 were declared brought dead. There are fears that the death toll might rise further as several of those injured are critical.
Dachigam Open For Visitors, No Restrictions Imposed Today: Clarifies Govt
The Government on Wednesday clarified that entry to Dachigam National Park remains fully open for visitors and no restrictions have been imposed on public access today.
In an official statement, the Government spokesperson said the clarification was being issued in response to certain claims circulating regarding alleged restrictions on entry to Dachigam National Park on June 3, 2026.
“It is clarified that entry for all visitors to Dachigam National Park remains completely open as per the usual procedure. No restrictions have been imposed by the Government regarding entry to the park for today, June 3,” the spokesperson said.
The statement further advised the public not to pay attention to unverified reports and to follow the standard protocols applicable for visits to the National Park.
“The public is advised to follow standard procedures for their visit and not to pay heed to unverified news,” the spokesperson added. (JKNS)
J&K Govt Forms Panel To Review APS On Abnormally Low Bids
The Jammu and Kashmir Government has constituted a committee headed by the Director General (Codes) to review the imposition of Additional Performance Security (APS) on contractors quoting Abnormally Low Bid (ALB) prices.