Punjab Governor Praises ‘War Against Drugs’ Campaign, Calls Mann Government’s Crackdown on Traffickers Decisive

Punjab Governor Praises ‘War Against Drugs’ Campaign, Calls Mann Government’s Crackdown on Traffickers Decisive

Chandigarh, February 2026: The land of Punjab, once gripped by a severe drug crisis, is today scripting a decisive response against the menace. Launched on March 1, 2025, the ‘War Against Drugs’ campaign has evolved from a government initiative into a larger battle to protect Punjab’s identity and future. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann had issued a clear warning that there would be no place for drug peddlers in the state. Within a year, developments on the ground have shown that this was not mere rhetoric but firm intent.

The ongoing campaign has now received open praise from Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, sending a strong political and social message. When it comes to saving Punjab’s younger generation, genuine action speaks louder than words, and the governor’s appreciation underlines the seriousness and credibility of the drive.

By February 2026, as many as 49,436 drug traffickers had been arrested, over 34,000 FIRs registered, thousands of kilograms of heroin and opium seized, and drug money worth crores frozen. These figures clearly indicate that the government has dealt a crippling blow to trafficking networks. Recoveries include 1,961 kg of heroin, 607 kg of opium, 27.5 quintals of poppy husk, 47.57 lakh intoxicant tablets, and 28 kg of ICE, shaking the entire supply chain. Additionally, properties worth ₹263 crore belonging to 548 traffickers have been frozen, conveying a clear message that the drug trade is no longer profitable.

To counter cross-border smuggling through drones, the Mann government has deployed anti-drone systems in Tarn Taran, Ferozepur and Amritsar, and is installing 2,367 CCTV cameras along the international border. This demonstrates that the government is relying not just on strong statements, but also on technology-driven and strategic enforcement. Alongside this, ₹80 crore linked to cyber fraud has been frozen, indicating a simultaneous crackdown on all forms of crime connected to drugs.

The campaign has also struck hard at terror and gangster networks. In 2025, 12 terror incidents were solved and 50 module members arrested. The Internal Security Wing busted 19 modules, apprehending 131 individuals and seizing large quantities of weapons, RDX, grenades and RPGs. The Anti-Gangster Task Force dismantled 416 modules and jailed 992 gangsters, reinforcing that the nexus between drugs, terrorism and organised crime is being targeted at its roots.

Significantly, this drive has received support beyond political boundaries. Governor Kataria’s praise is notable, especially given past differences between the Raj Bhavan and the state government on various issues. His endorsement underscores that the action against drugs is not about politics, but about intent and results.

Chief Minister Mann has repeatedly stated that this is not just a police operation but a collective social battle. Around 1.5 lakh ‘Pind De Pehredar’ volunteers are active across villages, thousands of youths have been connected to de-addiction centres, and anti-drug awareness campaigns are being run in schools. This is not merely a campaign of arrests, but a mission to safeguard future generations.

Punjab is gradually emerging from the shadow of fear. Traffickers are losing confidence, young people are regaining trust, and families are finding renewed hope. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s assertive and fearless leadership has shown that with strong political will, even the most complex problems can be addressed at their roots. The ‘War Against Drugs’ is no longer just a campaign—it is a declaration of a new Punjab.