Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh Vows to Eradicate Drugs: Traffickers to Face Legal Action
Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh Takes Strong Stand Against Drug Trafficking and Addiction
In a powerful message to drug traffickers and addicts alike, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh has vowed to rid the state of drug abuse. Speaking to the media on March 6, 2025, following a review of the state’s de-addiction efforts, he declared that drug traffickers will either face jail time or be forced to leave the state.
This announcement is part of the ongoing War Against Drugs, a comprehensive initiative launched by the Punjab government to combat the escalating drug crisis in the state. With a multi-pronged approach, the government is determined to eradicate the deep-rooted problem of drug abuse that has plagued Punjab for years.
A Bold Commitment to a Drug-Free Punjab
Dr. Balbir Singh’s remarks come after his visit to the Government Rehabilitation Centre in Moga, where he met with officials and managers of both government and private drug de-addiction centers. Singh emphasized that the state government is committed to fulfilling its promises made during the Aam Aadmi Party’s campaign, particularly the promise to create a drug-free Punjab. The Minister also reiterated the government’s resolve to treat drug users with empathy, offering them rehabilitation and reintegration into society rather than punishment.
“Drug traffickers will either be behind bars or forced to leave Punjab,” said Singh, adding that the War on Drugs will play a decisive role in making Punjab drug-free. Singh stressed that the state government would take strict action against anyone involved in the illegal drug trade, and no political interference would be tolerated in the fight against drug smuggling.
The Compassionate Approach to Drug Users
The Health Minister made it clear that the Punjab government is adopting a compassionate and empathetic approach towards those affected by drug addiction. Rather than criminalizing drug users, the government’s focus is on offering medical treatment, counseling, and rehabilitation to help them re-enter society.
One of the immediate priorities in the fight against drugs is to address the alarming number of overdose deaths caused by drugs such as chitta (synthetic drugs). According to Singh, drug users will initially be put on medication to help manage their addiction and prevent overdose deaths. Additionally, efforts will be made to rehabilitate addicts through sports and vocational training, enabling them to build productive lives outside the world of drugs.
Job Opportunities for Rehabilitated Addicts
The government’s plans go beyond just addiction treatment. Singh revealed that 763 job letters were handed out recently as part of the state’s efforts to provide meaningful employment to those who have overcome addiction. In addition to job opportunities, the government is focused on vocational training to ensure that recovering addicts can find sustainable work.
Furthermore, the government will create a narcotic support group that will work closely with drug de-addiction centers, NGOs, and religious institutions to strengthen the rehabilitation process. The support group will also receive financial assistance from Punjabis, both within the state and among the global NRIs, further ensuring that the campaign has the necessary resources to succeed.
The State’s Multi-Pronged Approach
The government’s approach to tackling the drug crisis includes a strong focus on prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. Dr. Singh emphasized the importance of community cooperation in the effort to make Punjab a drug-free state. He appealed to women, urging them to bring their family members struggling with addiction to the government-run de-addiction centers.
The Punjab government is also focusing on breaking the drug supply chain, ensuring that drug trafficking no longer thrives in the state. The Health Minister assured that, unlike previous governments, no politician would be involved in the drug trade, and the police are now working without political pressure. Singh further promised that any properties built through illicit drug money would be demolished as per the law.
Mobile Mohalla Clinics: A New Health Revolution
In addition to addressing the drug problem, Dr. Singh shared details of the Punjab government’s health revolution, which will soon include mobile Mohalla clinics. These mobile clinics will travel across the state, providing free medical services and essential medications to rural communities. Singh announced that 71 mobile Mohalla clinic vans will be launched within the next two to four months, aiming to cover two villages every day. These vans will be equipped to offer over 40 health tests and more than 125 medicines.
Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure
In addition to the mobile clinics, the Punjab government is working to improve its healthcare infrastructure. Dr. Singh confirmed that 200 new health centers will be opened across the state, providing better access to healthcare services. Specialized services, including knee replacement surgery, will be available at six centers, and a Center of Excellence for Dialysis has already been set up in Ludhiana, with plans for similar centers in other areas.
Ensuring Accountability at Drug De-addiction Centers
Finally, Dr. Singh took a firm stance on ensuring accountability at private drug de-addiction centers. He issued strict instructions to managers of these centers, warning that any center found selling narcotic pills or engaging in illegal activities would face severe consequences. Dr. Singh assured that he would personally monitor the functioning of these centers to ensure they remain focused on rehabilitation, not profiteering.
Conclusion: A Unified Effort to Overcome Drug Addiction
The War on Drugs in Punjab is gaining significant momentum, thanks to the strong leadership of Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh and the Aam Aadmi Party government. With a blend of empathy, strict enforcement, and community cooperation, Punjab is well on its way to making significant strides in tackling the drug epidemic.
As the campaign progresses, the Punjab government is hopeful that the combination of treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation will finally bring an end to the drug scourge that has affected so many families across the state.