Punjab Fights Jail Drug Trade with Trained Sniffer Dogs Under Bhagwant Mann Government’s Tough Campaign

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced a bold new step to eliminate drug smuggling networks operating inside prisons. At a cabinet meeting on October 13, the state approved the induction of sniffer dogs in six central jails. These trained Labradors will be sourced from specialized canine programs of the BSF and CRPF. They will detect heroin, opium, illicit liquor, mobile phones, and even drones used for smuggling. Authorities expect this move to tighten jail security significantly. The decision marks a landmark moment in the “War Against Drugs” campaign.

Finance Minister Explains New Initiative

Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema described the dogs as a “force multiplier” in the state’s anti-drug mission. He explained that each dog has undergone special training to identify contraband. Recent jail inspections revealed drug networks in 15 out of 24 prisons. Nearly 42 percent of inmates are jailed under the NDPS Act, reflecting the scale of the crisis. With sniffer dogs patrolling, authorities believe supply chains will collapse. Surprise inspections and visitor checks are also expected to intensify. The decision is being seen as a major reform in governance.

Sniffer Dogs Chosen for Punjab Prisons

Each dog has a base cost of 2.5 lakh, but after full training and equipment, the expense rises to 15 lakh. Punjab has approved six such dogs for a total cost of 90 lakh. Prison staff will also undergo training at Phillaur Police Academy, which already runs a successful canine program. To ensure speed, the project has been cleared under a special exemption in the Public Procurement Act. Officials confirmed the dogs will soon be stationed in Ludhiana, Amritsar, Patiala, Nabha and Bathinda jails. The move is expected to deliver fast results.

Past Experience Shows Strong Results

Punjab has previously tested canine units with encouraging outcomes. Two dogs deployed by the Excise Department exposed several cases of illicit liquor. Punjab Police canine squads have also intercepted smuggling of mobile phones inside prisons. Officials believe the new dogs will reinforce the older units and boost results. Already, 25 prison officers were suspended for collusion with drug cartels. Authorities want “zero tolerance” against drugs in every correctional facility. The addition of sniffer dogs is expected to be a critical turning point in this ongoing crackdown.

Statistics Highlight Drug Problem in Jails

Reports by Punjab Police underline the seriousness of the situation. In 2024 alone, over 1,100 kilograms of heroin were seized in the state. NDPS cases fell by 25 percent but still exceeded 9,000. In prisons, smuggling often relied on drones, visitor packages, and collusion by insiders. The government now seeks to block every loophole through stronger surveillance. With dogs on duty, detection of narcotics and contraband is expected to rise sharply. Officials hinted that this model may later expand to all 24 prisons across Punjab.

Public Reaction to New Announcement

The government’s announcement has sparked strong reactions among citizens and security experts. Many praised the innovative approach of using dogs to break supply chains. One social media post read, “Sniffer dogs are the roar of security inside jails.” Another remarked that the move shows governance can achieve the impossible. Security experts have labeled the step a “game changer.” The measure is expected to enforce discipline among both inmates and staff. For countless families fighting drug abuse, this is seen as a ray of hope.

Chief Minister Mann’s Clear Message

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann emphasized that the war on drugs is not just for the police but for society as a whole. He declared that cleaning jails will also clean Punjab. Mann urged the youth to reject narcotics and work towards their dreams. Corrupt staff have already been suspended, and smuggling chains are being cut. With sniffer dogs on duty, the vision of a drug-free Punjab looks more achievable. Mann’s message was clear: the fight will continue until every jail is free from narcotics.