The Fact News Service
Jalandhar, May 19
Further intensifying Yudh Nashia Virudh initiative, Punjab Horticulture, Freedom Fighters, and Defence Services Welfare Minister Mohinder Singh Bhagat today held meetings with warf defence committees of wards No. 42, 43, and 44 in the city, urging them to work resolutely against drug abuse and spread the message of drug de-addiction to every household.
The Cabinet Minister, accompanied by District Planning Committee Chairman Amritpal Singh, said that the Punjab Government is making extensive efforts not only to tighten the noose around drug traffickers but also to rehabilitate drug addicts. He stated that so far, illegal properties of 86 drug traffickers have been demolished, and 75 traffickers have been apprehended through encounters.
Bhagat said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and AAP’s National Convener Arvind Kejriwal, the state has launched a historic ‘Nasha Mukti Yatra’ (Drug-Free March), aiming to spread awareness across over 15,000 villages and wards. He added that around 351 villages will host Gram Sabhas daily with active public participation to strengthen this movement further.
Encouraging Ward Defence Committees members to intensify surveillance in their wards, he said it must be ensured that no drug trafficker can operate in their areas. He urged immediate reporting to the police if any drug-selling or smuggling activity is observed.
The Cabinet Minister also encouraged committee members to help individuals who wish to return to normal life after quitting drugs, by treating them with compassion and providing necessary support for their reintegration.Calling on all sections of society to join the fight against drugs, he said, “We will soon win this battle and make Punjab a drug-free and vibrant state.”
On this occasion, the Minister administered an anti-drug pledge to thousands of people who vowed not to consume or allow drugs, to oppose drug trafficking, and to help make Punjab a safe, enlightened, and drug-free state.
Representatives from Administration, Police, and Health departments also participated. SHO Hardev Singh stated that under state directives, the police department is taking strict action against drug traffickers. He said the public can report any drug-related activity via the Government’s WhatsApp number 9779-100-200, assuring that the informant’s identity will remain confidential.
Dr. Harinder Singh highlighted efforts being made for the treatment and rehabilitation of drug addicts and said that anyone needing help may contact the district de-addiction helpline at 0181-2911969.
Councillors Romi Wadhwa, Sunita Tikka, Raj Kumar Raju, Nasha Mukti Yatra in-charge Kamal Loch, and others were also present on the occasion.
