Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Wednesday called for a united fight against the growing drug menace in the state, emphasizing that the battle is not solely the responsibility of law enforcement but requires mass public participation.
Speaking at an event where several NCC, NSS, and school students took an oath to stay away from drugs, Mann lauded the involvement of Punjab’s youth in the campaign. He also appreciated village panchayats for proactively passing resolutions to make their communities drug-free.
Mass Movement Against Drugs
Mann highlighted that village panchayats are actively pledging to report drug traffickers to the police, ensuring a collective effort to curb the problem. He urged people to share any drug-related information via the dedicated WhatsApp helpline number 9779100200, assuring that the identity of informants would remain confidential.
Crackdown on Drug Traffickers
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, Mann warned that properties amassed through drug trade would face “bulldozer action.” He cited recent demolitions of illegally acquired properties in Muktsar as part of the crackdown on drug-related assets.
“We are determined to end this menace. Every day, bulldozers are running over the mansions built with drug money,” he asserted.
Holistic Rehabilitation Plan
Mann acknowledged that merely cutting drug supply chains would not be sufficient and stressed the importance of rehabilitation. He assured that the Punjab government has a structured plan that includes well-equipped rehabilitation centers, medical facilities, education, and job opportunities to help recovering addicts reintegrate into society.
“When supply chains are disrupted, those already addicted will suffer. That is why we have ensured adequate medical and rehabilitation facilities,” he added.
Statewide Drug-Free Pledge Campaign
The chief minister announced that the ongoing drug-free oath campaign will be expanded across Punjab. Students from schools, colleges, NCC, and NSS units will play an active role in spreading awareness.
“Slowly but surely, every young person in Punjab will take an oath against drugs, making this a collective movement,” Mann said.
AAP Leaders Back the Campaign
Speaking at the event, AAP leader Manish Sisodia praised the initiative, stating that thousands of children taking an oath against drugs would strengthen the Punjab government’s Yudh Nashayian Virudh (War Against Drugs) campaign.
He added that nearly 15,000 students participated in an awareness drive in Ludhiana’s markets, personally encouraging people to pledge against drug consumption and report illegal activities.
With the Punjab government stepping up its efforts, the fight against drugs is being turned into a public movement, aiming for a drug-free future for the state.
Sources By Agencies
