Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann on Thursday declared that after cracking down on small-time drug peddlers, the focus has now shifted to the major players—referred to as ‘Jarnails’—who will face stringent action for their involvement in the drug trade.
Addressing the media from his official residence, CM Bhagwant reaffirmed the government’s unwavering stance against drugs, stating that influential individuals who have either supported or been part of the illegal network would now be brought to justice. He explained that while the minor offenders acted as ground-level distributors, the real masterminds, who managed large-scale operations, have remained untouched for years. “Their time is over,” Mann declared firmly. “Regardless of their power or position, no one involved in the drug network will be spared.”
He pointed out that the state has already imprisoned numerous low-level smugglers, fulfilling the Aam Aadmi Party’s commitment to ensure justice in such grave crimes. CM Bhagwant asserted that the ongoing campaign has significantly weakened the drug mafia’s foundations.
He also revealed that authorities have obtained strong evidence against those apprehended, including records of large hawala transactions, which he called “the final nail in their coffin.” CM Bhagwant assured that strict and exemplary punishment would follow, intended to discourage others from engaging in similar crimes.
Highlighting the progress of the government’s “Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh” (War Against Drugs) initiative, CM Bhagwant noted that the campaign has gained significant public support and forced many traffickers to flee Punjab. He praised village panchayats for passing resolutions against substance abuse, calling it a major step toward eliminating drugs from the state.
Regarding the arrest of Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia, Mann said that support from rival parties for Majithia only reinforces the existence of a deep-rooted political shield protecting drug traffickers. He further informed that authorities had seized 29 mobile phones, eight laptops, and other critical evidence from Majithia’s premises. “His arrest has laid bare the unholy collusion between traditional political parties on the drug issue. Their greed has caused immense harm to Punjab,” CM Bhagwant said, warning that more high-profile leaders could soon be arrested and their properties seized or demolished.
He added that investigators are thoroughly examining every aspect of the drug money trail—both upstream and downstream—and that anyone who amassed illegal wealth through the narcotics trade will be held answerable. Rejecting claims of political vendetta, CM Bhagwant emphasized that all actions have been legally justified.
He questioned how such actions could be labeled as vendetta when the opposition has been soundly defeated by the public. CM Bhagwant said the opposition is simply trying to politicize the crackdown to shield itself, but such tactics would fail as the people of Punjab clearly see through the deceitful conduct of these leaders.