Punjab Anti-Drug Crackdown Sparks Political Storm As Cheema Claims Traffickers Shift Base From Punjab To Haryana

Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema asserted that the state’s sustained crackdown on narcotics is yielding measurable outcomes. Enforcement agencies have intensified operations targeting trafficking routes and local suppliers. The government says coordinated policing has dismantled several drug networks. Community participation has also strengthened vigilance across villages and towns. Officials claim visible disruption of open drug markets. Cheema emphasised that sustained action has created pressure on organised criminal groups. However, the issue remains politically sensitive and closely contested.

Are Drug Traffickers Shifting Operations To Haryana?

Cheema alleged that tightening enforcement in Punjab has forced traffickers to relocate their activities to Haryana. He claimed criminal networks are establishing alternative operational bases to sustain supply chains. According to him, this shift reflects the impact of Punjab’s aggressive anti-drug strategy. The remarks have sparked political reactions across both states. Haryana authorities have not formally endorsed these allegations. Analysts note that trafficking networks often adapt to enforcement changes. The claim has intensified interstate political debate on narcotics control.

Did Drugs Spread During Previous Punjab Governments?

Recalling earlier years, Cheema argued that Punjab experienced widespread drug proliferation during the 2007–2017 SAD-BJP regime. He claimed substances such as heroin and synthetic drugs gained ground during that period. The minister said public backlash against social damage influenced electoral outcomes. Opposition leaders contest this narrative and highlight structural challenges in combating drugs. Experts emphasise that narcotics trafficking involves complex cross-border dynamics. Historical accountability remains a political flashpoint in Punjab politics. The debate continues to shape policy discussions.

What Impact Has ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ Campaign Created?

Cheema highlighted the AAP government’s anti-drug initiative ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’, launched after assuming office in 2022. A special sub-committee was formed to coordinate district-level action. Village Defence Committees with over 1.5 lakh members pledged support to the campaign. Authorities say community participation has strengthened intelligence gathering and reporting. The programme combines enforcement with awareness and prevention efforts. Government leaders describe it as a sustained institutional strategy. Observers note long-term success will depend on rehabilitation and policy continuity.

Why Is Sunil Sandhu Controversy Drawing Attention?

The minister raised concerns about action against Haryana Police officer Sunil Sandhu following anti-drug operations. Cheema described Sandhu as a decorated officer recognised for his service. A viral video showing narcotics seizure brought public attention to the matter. He questioned whether strict enforcement was being discouraged in Haryana. State authorities have not issued a detailed response to these claims. The controversy has added political tension between parties. It also highlights debates over law-enforcement autonomy in anti-drug actions.

Do Major Drug Seizures Raise Broader Network Concerns?

Cheema referred to a large heroin seizure in Gujarat to highlight the scale of trafficking networks operating across states. He suggested such cases raise questions about coordination and monitoring mechanisms. Experts note that large seizures often reflect both strong enforcement and underlying trafficking volumes. National agencies have repeatedly warned about international supply routes. The remarks broadened the political discussion beyond Punjab and Haryana. Analysts stress the importance of inter-state cooperation. Drug trafficking remains a complex nationwide challenge.

Why Are Nayab Singh Saini Visits Under Political Scrutiny?

Cheema questioned the repeated visits of Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to Punjab amid ongoing narcotics debates. He suggested these visits coincided with political tensions over anti-drug enforcement. Opposition leaders have rejected the allegation, calling it politically motivated. Observers view the controversy as part of broader interstate political positioning. The narrative battle reflects competing claims on drug policy effectiveness. Cheema reaffirmed Punjab’s commitment to continuing its crackdown. He also emphasised protecting officers acting honestly against drug networks.