Punjab Records 875 FIRs, Apprehends 1,188 Drug Dealers: Minister
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Synopsis
The Punjab government's 'Yudh Nashian Virudh' campaign has led to the registration of 875 FIRs and the arrest of 1,188 drug traffickers in just 12 days, as announced by Finance Minister Harpal Cheema. The initiative aims to combat drug abuse and promote a drug-free Punjab.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab has registered 875 FIRs in 12 days.
- 1,188 drug traffickers have been apprehended.
- Campaign has seized narcotics and drug money.
- Criticism of prior governments for fostering drug issues.
- Improved conviction rates under current administration.
Chandigarh, March 9 (NationPress) The Punjab government’s “Yudh Nashian Virudh” initiative, which commenced on February 25, has shown significant progress in just 12 days, according to the state’s Finance Minister Harpal Cheema, who chairs the Anti-Drug Campaign Sub-Committee.
Cheema informed the press that 875 first information reports (FIRs) have been filed, leading to the arrest of 1,188 drug traffickers, the seizure of Rs 35 lakh in drug money, and the confiscation of narcotics including 68 kg of heroin, 873 kg of poppy husk, 42 kg of opium, 3.5 kg of charas, and 674,370 intoxicating tablets.
Moreover, an awareness initiative is mobilizing community involvement to foster a drug-free and thriving Punjab.
Cheema criticized previous administrations led by the SAD-BJP alliance and the Congress for cultivating the drug crisis in the state, accusing them of intentionally leading the youth into addiction.
“Prior to 2007, Punjab was not familiar with synthetic drugs like heroin or ‘chitta’. These substances infiltrated Punjab during the SAD-BJP rule, ruining our youth. Instead of creating job opportunities, they established a system that ensnared the younger generation in addiction,” stated Cheema.
He also condemned the Congress government, asserting, “Capt Amarinder Singh made a false promise in 2017 to eliminate drugs within four weeks. Instead, his administration strengthened ties with drug dealers. Even during the COVID-19 lockdown, while essential items were scarce, drug trafficking thrived under Congress rule. This is why the people of Punjab voted them out in 2022.”
Minister Cheema underscored his party’s (AAP) historic win in 2022 as a pivotal rejection of the corrupt and anti-people practices of SAD-BJP and Congress.
Since taking office, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s administration has focused on modernizing the police force and enhancing law enforcement mechanisms to ensure justice.
He highlighted the significant differences in conviction rates under the NDPS Act, showcasing the effectiveness of the current government.
According to Cheema, the conviction rate during AAP's term is an impressive 86 percent, compared to 58 percent during Congress and a mere 40 percent under the SAD-BJP government.
He noted that several districts have achieved conviction rates exceeding 90 percent, including Sangrur at 93 percent, Nawanshahr at 99 percent, and Ropar at 95 percent.
These achievements are attributed to a robust system that promotes efficient prosecution, improved investigative agencies, and a fortified Punjab Police.
“Under the SAD-BJP regime, drug traffickers frequently evaded justice due to postponed charge sheets,” he added.
