Bhagwant Mann Highlights Action Against Drug Smugglers, Seeks Public Back

Bathinda: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday met party leaders and workers during a Lok Milni program in Bathinda, where he asked them to step up efforts to make the second phase of the anti-drug campaign “Yudh Nashean Virudh” a people’s movement.

He said Punjab is fighting one of the toughest battles in the country against drugs and public support will decide how successful this mission becomes.

What did Mann say about the fight against drugs?

The Chief Minister said the state government has launched the second phase of the campaign with the clear aim of wiping out drugs from Punjab completely. He claimed that during the past one year, cases have been registered against around 28,000 drug smugglers, and nearly 88 percent of them have been convicted.

Mann said earlier governments protected the drug trade, but his government has acted firmly, which has helped rebuild public trust.

Why does he want people to join this movement?

According to Mann, police action alone cannot solve the problem. He said only when common people come forward, report drug peddlers, and stand with the government, can Punjab truly become drug-free.

He added that the campaign is meant to protect future generations and early results are already visible on the ground.

What steps have been taken against drug networks?

Mann said supply chains have been broken, major drug operators have been jailed, addicts are being treated and rehabilitated, and properties of drug traffickers have been demolished using bulldozers.

He promised the campaign will continue until drugs are fully eliminated from the state.

What governance achievements did Mann highlight?

The Chief Minister also spoke about other work done by his government. He said canal water has reached tail-end villages for the first time in decades, and many closed canals have been reopened.

Farmers now receive electricity during the day, while 90 percent of households get free power. He said more than 61,000 youth have been given government jobs without bribes or recommendations.

He also mentioned that 17 toll plazas were shut down, saving people around ₹64 lakh every day.

What has been done in healthcare and education?

Mann said 881 Aam Aadmi Clinics are providing free treatment and medicines, and a new health scheme offering cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh will be launched soon.

In education, 118 Schools of Eminence are being set up, free uniforms are being provided, and girls get free bus travel. Special coaching is also being offered for exams like NEET, JEE, CLAT and defence services.

He said hundreds of government school students have already cleared major competitive exams.

Why is the Sadak Surakhya Force being praised?

Mann added that the state’s Sadak Surakhya Force, formed to improve road safety, has received appreciation not only across India but also in Parliament.