Punjab’s ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ Campaign: Illegal Property Demolished in Crackdown on Drug Peddlers
Punjab’s War on Drugs: ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ Leads to Demolition of Illegal Property in Nainowal Vaid
Chandigarh/Hoshiarpur, March 27, 2025 — In an assertive step towards curbing drug trafficking, the Punjab Government’s ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ (War Against Drugs) campaign has led to the demolition of an illegally occupied property belonging to a notorious drug peddler in the village of Nainowal Vaid. The targeted action is part of the state’s broader strategy to dismantle the operations of drug peddlers and reduce the illegal encroachment of Panchayat lands by those involved in the narcotics trade.
Crackdown on Drug Peddler Gurmeet Kaur
The targeted demolition in Nainowal Vaid was aimed at the property of Gurmeet Kaur, a drug peddler with a criminal history spanning multiple narcotic-related offenses. Gurmeet Kaur, wife of Balwinder Singh, had illegally encroached on Panchayat land and refused to vacate despite numerous warnings from local authorities. The district administration, working in close collaboration with the Punjab Police, carried out the demolition following persistent complaints from the Village Panchayat about the illegal encroachment.
District Police have long been aware of Gurmeet Kaur’s criminal activities. SSP Sandeep Kumar Malik revealed that the accused has a significant criminal record, with eight NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) cases to her name and three prior convictions. In addition to the demolition, Kaur’s property is now under scrutiny, sending a clear message that illegal occupation linked to criminal activities will not be tolerated.
A Broader Campaign Against Drug Trafficking
The demolition is just one of many actions taken under the ongoing ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ campaign, launched by the Punjab Government to combat the ever-growing drug menace in the state. Since the campaign’s initiation on March 1, Punjab’s law enforcement has intensified its efforts to dismantle drug networks and apprehend those involved in the trafficking and distribution of illegal substances.
SSP Malik, speaking on the ongoing drug crackdown, emphasized that the police will continue their fight against drug peddlers with renewed vigor. He also pointed to the seizure of significant quantities of narcotics, including 4 kg of intoxicant powder, 8110 intoxicant tablets, 707 grams of heroin, and 2.306 kg of opium, as part of the district’s efforts. Additionally, authorities have confiscated Rs. 23,400 in drug money and arrested 191 individuals involved in drug-related offenses.
Focused Strategy on Property and Assets of Drug Peddlers
As part of its multi-pronged strategy, the district police have also begun attaching properties linked to drug peddlers, with an estimated total worth of over Rs. 25 crore in confiscated assets so far. SSP Malik reaffirmed the commitment of the police in targeting the financial backbone of drug syndicates, stressing that seizing assets is a vital tool in dismantling the operations of these criminal networks.
“The state police are determined to break the chain of drug trafficking by attacking both the peddlers and their assets,” stated Malik. “By confiscating their properties and exposing their illegal operations, we can curb their ability to continue engaging in such activities.”
The Role of Community and Panchayats in Combating Drug Menace
The success of the ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ campaign also relies heavily on community involvement. Village Panchayats, as evidenced in Nainowal Vaid, play a crucial role in identifying drug-related activities and facilitating cooperation between local residents and law enforcement agencies. The Panchayat in Nainowal Vaid welcomed the Punjab Government’s decisive action, recognizing the importance of swift responses to drug-related encroachments that threaten the well-being of the community.
Panchayats have become an essential part of the effort to promote a drug-free Punjab. Local leaders have been encouraged to raise awareness about the dangers of drug use and cooperate with the police in reporting criminal activities. The proactive approach by the community, alongside law enforcement, forms a powerful partnership in tackling this pervasive issue.
Ongoing Efforts to Eliminate Drug Networks
The Hoshiarpur District Police’s relentless pursuit of drug peddlers is just the beginning of what officials describe as a long-term battle against the drug trade in Punjab. With more FIRs being filed and numerous arrests being made, authorities are sending a strong message that drug trafficking will no longer be tolerated. The ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ campaign is expected to expand to other regions of Punjab, with even more stringent measures aimed at eradicating the growing drug trade.
SSP Malik concluded by stressing the importance of continued vigilance, both from law enforcement and from the community. He assured that the police would keep up their efforts and take action against all individuals and groups involved in drug trafficking, regardless of their stature or influence.
Conclusion: Punjab’s Commitment to a Drug-Free Future
The demolition of Gurmeet Kaur’s illegal property is a significant milestone in Punjab’s ongoing battle against drugs. Through targeted actions, asset seizures, and community collaboration, the state is intensifying its efforts to combat the drug menace and ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.
The ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ campaign signals Punjab’s unwavering commitment to a drug-free future, where criminal elements no longer control the lives of the state’s youth and communities. As the crackdown continues, law enforcement and citizens alike stand united in the fight against the destruction caused by drug peddling.