Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has taken strong steps to curb the drug problem in the state after The Tribune highlighted the increase in drug overdose deaths. In less than a week, over 10,000 lower-ranking police officials accused of colluding with drug dealers have been moved to different police stations across the state.
CM Mann chaired a high-level meeting with senior police officers where he highlighted complaints relating to certain police providing forewarning to peddlers about impending raids, allowing them to flee. “We have received troubling reports of how raiding teams would alert traffickers on their way to conduct searches, giving them time to escape. This is unacceptable. We cannot stand by as entire generations are destroyed,” he said.
Women voters had voiced serious concerns during the recent Lok Sabha elections about the widespread drug use, particularly among youth as young as 11-12 years. The government is clearly paying heed to curb this menace.
Officials colluding with traffickers will face dismissal, while properties of peddlers will be confiscated within seven days. Strict instructions were issued to all Superintendents of Police and higher ranks to ensure diligent action. A multipronged strategy involving rehabilitation and generating job opportunities for recovering addicts is also being chalked out.
Mann underlined the need for empathy while helping misguided youth. However, there will be zero tolerance for any corruption or malpractice in the ranks. Punjab is committed to breaking the supply chain and saving countless lives from the devastation of drug addiction. Stern steps will be taken to wipe out this social evil.
