After Small Fish, Now It’s the Turn of Drug Trade ‘Generals’: CM Mann
Chandigarh, June 26
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced today that, following action against small-scale drug traffickers, the focus has now shifted to the major players involved in the drug trade, who will face the consequences of their actions.
Speaking to the media at his official residence, Mann reiterated his government’s zero-tolerance policy toward drugs and influential individuals involved in or patronizing this illicit trade. He stated, “Small-time traffickers act merely as distributors, while the masterminds running the entire network have long evaded accountability. Now, it’s their turn. No one, no matter how powerful, will be spared.”
Key Statements
- Targeting Major Players: Mann revealed that a significant arrest of another “big fish” is imminent in the coming days, signaling intensified action against high-profile drug traffickers.
- Exposing Political Nexus: Commenting on the recent arrest of Akali leader Bikram Singh Majithia, Mann said the action has exposed a “nefarious political nexus” supporting drug traffickers. He noted that statements from various political leaders defending Majithia reveal their complicity in shielding such elements.
- Substantial Evidence: The Chief Minister disclosed that substantial evidence, including hawala transaction records, has been collected against arrested individuals, describing it as “the final nail in their coffin.” He assured that this exemplary action would deter others from entering the drug trade.
- No Political Vendetta: Refuting allegations of political vendetta, Mann emphasized that all actions are lawful and backed by concrete evidence. “When Punjab’s people have rejected the opposition outright, how can this be political revenge? The opposition is trying to politicize the issue to shield themselves, but such efforts will fail as the public is well aware of their tainted character,” he said.
- Seized Evidence: Mann highlighted that 29 mobile phones, eight laptops, and other critical evidence were recovered from Majithia’s residence, further exposing the scale of the drug trade’s political connections.
‘War on Drugs’ Campaign
Mann underscored the success of Punjab’s ongoing ‘War on Drugs’ campaign, noting that many traffickers have fled the state. He described the campaign as having transformed into a people’s movement with widespread public support. The Chief Minister praised village panchayats for passing resolutions against drugs, calling it a constructive step toward eradicating the drug menace in Punjab.
Commitment to Justice
Mann reaffirmed his government’s commitment to bringing all culprits to justice. He warned that other prominent political figures involved in the drug trade would soon be arrested, and their properties would either be confiscated or demolished. “The entire chain of drug money, from source to destination, will be thoroughly investigated. Those who have amassed vast properties through this illicit trade will be held accountable,” he stated.
The Chief Minister’s remarks reflect Punjab’s resolute fight against drug trafficking, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and justice to dismantle the networks that have plagued the state.
