Political Unity Essential to Combat Drug Crisis: Punjab Minister
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Synopsis
Punjab Minister Aman Arora calls for unity among political parties and organizations to combat drug abuse in the state. An extensive action plan has been launched to eradicate the drug menace and support victims through treatment and rehabilitation.
Key Takeaways
- All political parties must unite against drug abuse.
- A comprehensive 360-degree action plan is in place.
- Drug users should be treated with empathy and compassion.
- Parents are urged to seek help for drug users.
- Clear warning issued to drug smugglers.
Chandigarh, March 1 (NationPress) Punjab Cabinet Minister Aman Arora on Saturday issued a strong appeal to all political parties, social and religious organizations, as well as NGOs, to collaborate with the government to establish a unified front aimed at transforming the state into a drug-free region.
Arora’s call follows the initiation of a statewide operation against drugs, which has seen raids conducted at 750 locations. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has set a three-month deadline for achieving a drug-free Punjab.
As the state president of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Arora addressed the media after a high-level meeting of the five-member Cabinet Sub-Committee dedicated to combating the drug crisis, stating that it is a collective duty of the 3 crore residents of Punjab. He emphasized the need for unity in confronting this grave issue with all available resources.
According to Arora, the government and police cannot alone free Punjab from the severe challenges left by prior administrations. He expressed confidence that through collaboration, Punjab can overcome this adversity and realize the vision of a healthier and more vibrant state, as envisioned by AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal and Chief Minister Mann.
Arora mentioned that the government has developed a comprehensive 360-degree action plan to eradicate the drug menace entirely. This plan includes prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation strategies to assist victims in reintegrating into society. While police are firmly addressing drug traffickers, they have been instructed to treat drug users with empathy and compassion, recognizing them as individuals in need of support.
He highlighted the profound impact of drug abuse on individuals, families, and society, stating, “This is a battle we must win together. We need the collective strength and commitment of every stakeholder to address this complex issue effectively.”
“I assure you that we will not rest until we completely eradicate this menace from the state. It’s a matter of the existence of Punjab… This situation was deliberately created by past regimes for their personal gain,” Arora remarked. He also sent a clear message to drug smugglers, warning them to cease their activities or prepare to face severe consequences.
While reiterating the government’s commitment to tackling drug smugglers decisively, he urged parents and family members of drug users to take them to government drug de-addiction centers or OOAT clinics for treatment. Minister Arora assured that the government has made sufficient arrangements for the care of drug victims. He encouraged them to reach out to local authorities for any challenges they encounter, assuring that the state government stands ready to assist them in overcoming these difficulties.
