Punjab Strengthens Campaign Against Drugs and Organized Crime: Governor Kataria
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Synopsis
Governor Gulab Chand Kataria announced the Punjab government's intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking and organized crime through strategic initiatives and public awareness campaigns during the Budget Session of the Vidhan Sabha.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab's commitment to fight drugs strengthened.
- High-level sub-committee formed for success.
- Demolition of traffickers' properties sends a strong message.
- Public awareness meetings and VDCs established.
- Anti-Gangster Task Force achieves significant arrests.
Chandigarh, March 21 (NationPress) Emphasizing the unwavering dedication of the Punjab government to eradicate the menace of drugs, Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Friday stated that through 'Yudh Nasheyan Virudh', a concentrated effort is being made to dismantle the economic framework of the entire nexus.
In his speech during the inaugural day of the Budget Session of the Vidhan Sabha, the Governor mentioned that the Punjab government has escalated its battle against drug trafficking and organized crime via strategic initiatives, including a resolute launch of the war against drugs.
He revealed that a high-level Cabinet sub-committee led by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema has been established to ensure the success of this campaign.
Governor Kataria noted that numerous properties belonging to drug traffickers have been demolished to deliver a strong message of determination to completely eradicate the drug issue in Punjab.
He highlighted that the Special Task Force (STF), now restructured and reinforced as the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), was formed to enforce drug laws, rehabilitate victims, and prevent substance abuse.
To raise awareness among the public, 33,079 meetings were conducted statewide, and in just four months, 19,523 Village Defence Committees (VDCs) were established.
Kataria added that a Special Intelligence and Technical Unit has also been created to analyze drug-related data, communications, and financial transactions, significantly enhancing its effectiveness.
The Governor pointed out that the Anti-Gangster Task Force and field units have achieved notable success in fighting organized crime, resulting in the arrest of 1,588 criminals, neutralization of 13 gangsters, dismantling of 571 criminal modules, and recovery of 1,477 weapons and 327 vehicles associated with crimes.
Furthermore, he mentioned that the Punjab State Cyber Crime Division is actively addressing cyber threats by establishing 28 cyber police stations in Punjab, conducting round-the-clock social media monitoring, and launching initiatives like the Cyber Mittar chatbot.
Emphasizing additional achievements, he noted that the Punjab government has introduced several innovative schemes in pivotal sectors like health and education.
