‘Ensure 100% CCTV coverage, Computerised Billing Systems (CBS) at all chemist shops’
BUDGAM, APRIL 28: The 46th District-Level NCORD (Narco Coordination) Committee meeting was held Tuesday at the DC Office Budgam under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan.
SSP Budgam, Hariprasad KK was also present during the meeting.
At the outset, the committee reviewed action taken on previous NCORD decisions. The meeting reviewed ongoing anti-drug measures and charted a strengthened roadmap for a drug-free Budgam.
The DC, as per an official statement, stressed that drug abuse is not merely a law enforcement issue but a grave social challenge impacting families and communities. He underscored that the administration will remain firm and uncompromising against peddlers, traffickers, and cultivators, while extending full support, treatment, and rehabilitation to victims of addiction.
On the occasion, the DC directed all line departments to intensify efforts against narcotics cultivation and peddling. He emphasised ensuring that roadsides, embankments, and other vulnerable areas remain free from cannabis and poppy cultivation through coordinated action.
The DC reiterated that 100% CCTV coverage and Computerised Billing Systems (CBS) must be ensured in all chemist shops, with regular inspections and strict action against violations. The Drug Inspector was directed to ensure availability of CCTV footage and billing records, while the Excise Department was asked to work in close coordination with Police, Revenue, and Agriculture departments for destruction of illicit crops and registration of FIRs.
To strengthen community participation, SDMs were directed to engage religious scholars and local stakeholders to promote anti-drug messaging and “Nasha-Mukt Panchayats.” The Rural Development Department will organise special Gram Sabhas, while the District Social Welfare Office will conduct mega IEC campaigns across villages, towns, and educational institutions.
On the healthcare front, the DC directed that the Addiction Treatment Facility (ATF) at District Hospital Budgam remain fully functional round-the-clock and that the Drug De-Addiction Centre be strengthened for effective patient intake and rehabilitation.
He also instructed all Government Degree Colleges to install CCTV cameras within campuses to enhance preventive vigilance.
Reviewing the progress of the 100-day Intensive Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, the DC stressed the need to scale up ground-level impact. He called for intensified IEC campaigns, wider youth engagement, and measurable outcomes in terms of counselling, treatment, and community mobilisation. “The campaign must translate into visible behavioural change and community ownership. Every stakeholder must contribute to making Budgam truly drug-free,” he asserted.
Reiterating a zero-tolerance policy against drugs, the DC stated that the administration will continue decisive action against drug networks while ensuring a compassionate, rehabilitative approach for those affected.
During the meeting, SSP Budgam emphasised installation of CCTV cameras at identified hotspots including Nasrullapora, Chadoora, and Magam. He called for stronger inter-departmental coordination and focused counselling and rehabilitation of victims at the Drug De-Addiction Centre. He stressed that drug addicts should be treated as victims and supported in overcoming addiction through sustained care and guidance.
The meeting was attended by ADC Budgam, all SDMs, ACP, CMO, DIO, DSWO, Medical Superintendent DH Budgam, Principals of Government Degree Colleges, Executive Officers of Municipal Committees, Principals of Higher Secondary Schools, ZEOs, and other concerned officers.
