Health Minister Balbir warns drug peddlers: Quit the drug trade or leave Punjab.
Health Minister Balbir : The Punjab government’s “War on Drugs” campaign, led by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, aims to make the state drug-free. Health and Family Welfare Health Minister Balbir emphasized that public cooperation is essential in eradicating drug abuse.
Speaking to the media after a meeting with private drug de-addiction center managers at the Government Rehabilitation Center in Brahman Majra, Dr. Singh issued a stern warning to drug traffickers, urging them to either abandon their trade or leave Punjab. He stressed the need to protect the youth and vowed that those responsible for pushing them into addiction would face strict action, including the confiscation of properties acquired through drug trafficking.
Health Minister Balbir highlighted that private de-addiction centers would be held accountable for their effectiveness. He instructed these centers to present reports on the number of patients successfully rehabilitated, making it clear that they exist to help addicts recover—not to sell narcotic pills. He also announced plans for strict monitoring of these centers, warning of severe consequences if any were found selling drugs.
The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to rehabilitating drug addicts and integrating them into society by providing vocational training. After completing their training, individuals will be offered loans under various government schemes to support self-employment.
Health Minister Balbir also urged women to come forward if a family member is struggling with addiction, assuring them that government de-addiction centers would make every effort to ensure their loved ones regain a healthy and prosperous life.
Among those present at the event were Deputy Commissioner Dr. Sona Thind, SSP Shubham Agarwal, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development) Surinder Singh Dhaliwal, SDM Fatehgarh Sahib Arvind Gupta, Civil Surgeon Dr. Davinderjit Kaur, Deputy Medical Commissioner Dr. Sarita, District Vaccination Officer Dr. Rajesh Kumar, and other officials.