‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’: Targeting Both Supply and Demand, Punjab Will Soon Be Drug-Free – Aman Arora
Chandigarh, March 25
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab President and Cabinet Minister Aman Arora highlighted the success of the Punjab government’s anti-drug campaign, ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ (War Against Drugs), during a press conference at Punjab Bhawan, Chandigarh, alongside Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh and Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sondh. Providing an update on police actions up to March 24, Arora emphasized that the campaign is yielding encouraging results and gaining widespread public support across the state.
Over 2,100 kg of Drugs Seized, Thousands Arrested
Arora praised the Punjab Police for their relentless efforts, noting that approximately 2,100 kg of narcotics, including heroin, opium, ganja, and poppy husk, have been seized so far. Under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 2,248 FIRs have been lodged, leading to the arrest of 3,957 drug traffickers. Additionally, significant quantities of illicit substances—7.65 lakh intoxicating tablets, 1.25 kg of ice, 500 bottles of illicit liquor, 7 kg of intoxicating powder, and over 300 injections—have been confiscated. The crackdown has also resulted in the demolition of 48 properties linked to drug trafficking and injuries to 49 individuals during police encounters.
A substantial amount of cash has also been recovered, further disrupting the financial networks of drug peddlers. “The Punjab Police are conducting this operation with exceptional efficiency,” Arora said, crediting their role in the campaign’s success.
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A Dual Approach: Tackling Supply and Demand
Arora underscored the AAP government’s commitment, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s leadership, to making Punjab drug-free. He outlined a two-pronged strategy targeting both the supply and demand sides of the drug menace. “The police are breaking the supply chain, while the health department is treating those affected by addiction to reduce demand,” he explained. He expressed optimism that these sustained efforts will soon rid Punjab of drugs entirely.
Arora also called on Punjab’s Panchayat leaders, Sarpanches, and social workers to join the fight by refusing to support individuals involved in drug trafficking. “This is a collective battle, and public cooperation is key,” he urged.
Rehabilitation and Employment: A Path Forward
Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh detailed a three-tier approach to rehabilitate drug-affected individuals. “First, we are providing oral medication and have ensured all necessary facilities at de-addiction centers,” he said. In the second phase, support groups are being established to assist recovering individuals during emergencies. The third phase focuses on skill development courses, run in collaboration with the Youth Welfare and Skill Development Department, to provide employment opportunities and prevent relapse.
Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sondh emphasized the government’s focus on creating employment opportunities to address the root causes of drug addiction. “Unemployment is a major driver of drug use. Where jobs are available, drug-related crimes are noticeably lower,” he noted, citing examples of regions with better employment prospects showing reduced drug prevalence.
A United Front Against Drugs
The ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign has garnered praise from the public, with citizens actively cooperating with the government and local administration. Aman Arora reiterated that the combined efforts of law enforcement, health initiatives, and community support are paving the way for a drug-free Punjab. “With this comprehensive strategy, we are confident of achieving our goal,” he concluded.
