Punjab Arrests Over 1000 Drug Peddlers in 8 Days under ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ Campaign
Chandigarh/SAS Nagar, March 8 – Punjab’s ongoing ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ anti-drug campaign has achieved remarkable success under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. According to Punjab Cabinet Minister Aman Arora, more than 1000 drug peddlers have been arrested, and over 700 cases have been registered across the state in just eight days. The campaign, aimed at eradicating drug trafficking, has gained significant traction and is showing encouraging results.
During a review meeting with authorities in SAS Nagar, Minister Arora provided an update on the impressive achievements of the campaign. He confirmed that law enforcement had seized over 50 kg of heroin, 5 quintals of poppy husk, 30 kg of opium, and drug money amounting to more than Rs 22 lakh. These recoveries are clear indicators of the government’s aggressive approach to dismantling the state’s drug trafficking networks.
Punjab’s Unyielding Stand Against Drug Traffickers
Arora sent a strong message to drug traffickers: “There are only two options for those involved in the drug trade – either cease your activities or leave the state.” He stressed that the Punjab Government is committed to protecting its youth from the devastating impact of drugs. With ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’, the state is sending a firm warning that drug peddlers will face severe consequences for their illegal activities.
The government’s approach goes beyond arrests—it also focuses on targeting the financial structures of drug traffickers. Properties built using drug money are being demolished, ensuring that criminals do not benefit from their illegal enterprises. This decisive action reflects Punjab’s zero-tolerance policy toward drug trafficking.
Building a Collective Effort to Tackle the Drug Menace
Minister Arora emphasized the importance of a unified, collective effort in the fight against drugs. He called upon socio-religious institutions, political parties, and NGOs to actively participate in the campaign and work alongside the government to combat the drug crisis. “This is a collective responsibility,” he stated, urging all sectors of society to unite in this fight. Only through collaboration can the drug menace be eradicated from Punjab.
Arora also commended the work of local authorities in SAS Nagar, noting that significant progress has been made in the region under the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ initiative. With the backing of Punjab Police and district officials, the state is steadily gaining ground in its battle against the drug mafia.
Focus on Rehabilitation: Treating Drug Users as Patients, Not Criminals
While the crackdown on drug traffickers continues, Aman Arora stressed the importance of rehabilitation for those already affected by addiction. “Drug users are patients, not criminals,” he emphasized, highlighting the government’s commitment to providing medical and psychological support for those struggling with addiction.
Punjab has made adequate arrangements for rehabilitation, with de-addiction centers and OOAT (Opioid Substitution Therapy) clinics offering treatment options for drug users. This dual approach—focusing on prevention and rehabilitation—is designed to address the problem from both ends, creating a sustainable solution to the drug crisis.
A Rejection of Past Failures and Looking Toward a Drug-Free Future
Arora didn’t hesitate to criticize the past administrations for their failures in addressing the drug problem. He accused former governments of allowing drug trafficking to flourish for personal gains, leaving Punjab’s youth vulnerable to addiction. However, the current government, led by CM Bhagwant Singh Mann, is focused on undoing the damage caused over the years and is committed to uprooting the drug trade at its roots.
Future Plans for the Campaign
Looking ahead, Minister Arora outlined the continued strategies for the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign. He discussed an action plan that includes law enforcement as well as rehabilitation efforts, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling the drug menace. Collaboration with community organizations and local stakeholders will be vital in ensuring that Punjab remains on track to become a drug-free state.
Additionally, Arora directed Deputy Commissioner of Mohali, Komal Mittal, to submit a detailed report of all suggestions discussed during the meeting. These inputs will be considered for future policy decisions to make the campaign more effective.
Conclusion: Punjab’s Commitment to a Drug-Free Future
With over 1000 arrests and 700 cases registered in just eight days, ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ has proven to be a game-changer in Punjab’s fight against drug trafficking. The commitment shown by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Cabinet Minister Aman Arora signals that the Punjab Government is unwavering in its determination to tackle the drug crisis head-on. Through a balanced approach that combines law enforcement, rehabilitation, and public awareness, the state is well on its way to creating a drug-free Punjab.