Jammu/ Kishtwar, April 12: In a strong enforcement move, the Motor Vehicles Department has disqualified the driving licence of an individual from Kishtwar following his repeated involvement in narcotics-related offences and other criminal cases.
According to an official order issued by the Office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) Kishtwar, the driving licence bearing No. JK1720160030195, held by Muzaffar Hussain of Om Mehta Road, has been disqualified with immediate effect. The action follows inputs received from District Police Kishtwar regarding the registration of FIR No. 77/2026 under Sections 8/21/22 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act at Police Station Kishtwar.
Authorities further revealed that the individual has a long criminal history, including multiple FIRs under NDPS provisions as well as offences under the Indian Penal Code. He was also previously booked under the PIT NDPS Act in 2024, reinforcing concerns over his repeated involvement in unlawful activities.
Invoking Section 19 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, the licensing authority observed that the individual falls within the category of a habitual offender and a person whose conduct poses a potential threat to public safety. The law empowers authorities to disqualify a driving licence if the holder is a habitual drug user, has used a vehicle in the commission of a cognizable offence, or poses danger to the public at large.
Calling it a “necessary step to safeguard public interest,” officials stated that allowing such individuals to operate vehicles could endanger lives and undermine road safety. The licence holder has been directed to surrender his driving licence immediately at the ARTO office Kishtwar.
The move signals a tougher stance by authorities against individuals involved in drug-related crimes, especially those misusing motor vehicles as part of illegal activities. It also underlines growing coordination between the police and transport department in cracking down on repeat offenders.
Officials reiterated that strict action will continue against those who pose a threat to public safety, warning that involvement in criminal activities—particularly under NDPS laws—will have far-reaching consequences beyond criminal prosecution, including loss of civil privileges like driving rights.
