April 22: The Senior Superintendent of Police Budgam, Shri Hariprasad K K (IPS), has issued a public advisory urging all residents to voluntarily destroy poppy plants growing in private fields, orchards, or adjoining areas if any within 24 hours.
The SSP emphasized that illegal cultivation or possession of poppy is a punishable offence under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. He warned that strict legal action shall be initiated against violators found indulging in such unlawful activities after the stipulated period.
He further appealed to religious leaders, including imams of mosques, to actively disseminate this message among the public and encourage compliance, thereby contributing towards the collective goal of a drug-free society.
J&K Police reiterated its firm commitment to curbing the menace of drug abuse and illegal narcotics cultivation. The general public has been urged to extend full cooperation and promptly report any instances of illegal cultivation to the nearest police establishment.
