Punjab Minister Reveals Drug Traffickers are Fleeing to Haryana
Synopsis
Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Cheema reveals that ongoing anti-drug efforts are driving traffickers to flee to Haryana, raising concerns about the state's rising drug issues under Nayab Singh Saini's government. The AAP’s crackdown is showing results, prompting a major shift in drug operations.
Key Takeaways
Punjab's crackdown on drugs is yielding results.
Drug traffickers are relocating to Haryana.
Public involvement is crucial in anti-drug efforts.
Historical patterns of drug proliferation are repeating.
Government accountability is essential in combating the drug crisis.
Chandigarh, Feb 24 (NationPress) Punjab's Finance Minister, Harpal Cheema, stated on Tuesday that the ongoing efforts by the state government to combat narcotics are yielding significant outcomes, effectively dismantling drug syndicates that previously operated without restrictions. He emphasized that many drug traffickers are now abandoning Punjab and setting up operations in Haryana.
Minister Cheema highlighted that as Punjab fortifies its measures against drug trafficking, troubling questions are emerging regarding the escalating drug issue in Haryana under the leadership of the current Nayab Singh Saini government.
He noted the alarming rise of drugs in Punjab during the SAD-BJP rule from 2007 to 2017, suggesting that a similar trend is now manifesting in Haryana.
Referring to Haryana Police officer Sunil Sandhu, who is under scrutiny following anti-drug operations, Minister Cheema questioned what the BJP government in Haryana is attempting to safeguard him from.
Additionally, he speculated if the frequent visits by Haryana's Chief Minister Saini to Punjab signal a strategy to allow drug networks to reorganize and re-establish themselves, even as Haryana plunges further into crisis.
As the Punjab government escalates its anti-drug initiatives, Cheema reiterated that traffickers are fleeing Punjab and using Haryana as their operational hub. “The decisive actions taken by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, have tightened the grip on drug networks in Punjab, revealing how these criminal groups are now relocating,” he stated.
He added, “As we intensify our fight against drugs in Punjab, traffickers are shifting their base to Haryana. Our initiatives are proving effective, compelling them to flee.”
Reflecting on the consequences of drug proliferation, Cheema remarked, “Punjab faced dire repercussions from 2007 to 2017 due to the rampant spread of drugs like heroin and 'chitta' during the BJP-Akali government. The people of Punjab have rejected these substances after witnessing their devastating effects.”
Since the AAP government took office in 2022, they have launched a decisive campaign named 'Yudh Nashean Virudh'. A special sub-committee was established, and extensive coordination meetings were conducted across districts. Recently, over 1.5 lakh members of Village Defence Committees vowed to support the anti-drug movement, showcasing significant public involvement.
Point of View
It is evident that the Punjab government is actively tackling the drug menace, leading to a significant migration of traffickers to Haryana. The political implications of this trend are critical, as it raises questions about the effectiveness of the current governance in Haryana in addressing the burgeoning drug crisis.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is Punjab taking against drug trafficking?
Punjab is intensifying its crackdown on narcotics through various initiatives and campaigns, leading to significant dismantling of drug networks.
Why are drug traffickers moving to Haryana?
As Punjab strengthens its anti-drug efforts, traffickers are seeking new bases, which has led them to relocate operations to Haryana.
What is the significance of the 'Yudh Nashean Virudh' campaign?
'Yudh Nashean Virudh' is a decisive anti-drug campaign launched by the AAP government to galvanize public support and enhance coordination against narcotics.
Who is Sunil Sandhu and why is he under scrutiny?
Sunil Sandhu is a Haryana Police officer facing action following anti-drug operations, raising questions about the state's commitment to combating drug trafficking.
What historical context is relevant to the current drug crisis?
The drug crisis in Punjab escalated severely during the SAD-BJP government from 2007 to 2017, which has parallels with the current situation in Haryana.
