Taking a decisive step against drug abuse, Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched a mass awareness campaign against drugs on Wednesday. The initiative was flagged off after thousands of youth took an oath to combat the menace.
Addressing the gathering at an awareness march, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann declared that this campaign marks a turning point in the battle against drugs. He emphasized that the Punjab government will not allow drug smugglers to thrive at the cost of innocent lives. He further stated that the government has already disrupted drug supply networks and arrested key offenders. In a historic move, properties acquired illegally by drug smugglers are being confiscated or demolished to serve as a warning to others.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann attributed the worsening drug crisis in Punjab to the negligence of previous governments, allowing the problem to infiltrate deep into society. However, he expressed optimism under the guidance of Aam Aadmi Party’s National Convener, Arvind Kejriwal, who has successfully led transformative initiatives in Delhi, including tackling social issues. He envisioned that, with sustained efforts, Punjab will soon overcome this crisis.
CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stressed that the fight against drugs must become a mass movement involving not just the police but the entire community. He highlighted the encouraging response from the public, with several villages passing anti-drug resolutions. To strengthen public involvement, the Punjab government has launched a WhatsApp helpline (9779100200) for citizens to report drug-related activities. He assured that the identity of informants would remain confidential and urged people to actively participate in the initiative.
Praising Punjab Police for its legacy of service and sacrifice, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the force is now at the forefront of the state’s war on drugs. He called upon every citizen to take a stand against drug smuggling, urging them to be active participants in eliminating the menace and making Punjab a drug-free state.