Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann Presents Comprehensive Law and Order Report Card
In a significant address on Saturday, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann presented a detailed report card on the state's law and order situation under the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government. Speaking from Chandigarh, Mann asserted that tangible improvements in Punjab's security landscape are now clearly visible on the ground, attributing this progress to a multifaceted strategy centered on a zero-tolerance approach against narcotics and a sustained offensive against organized criminal networks.
Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Drugs Yields Substantial Results
Mann emphasized that the Punjab government has adopted an uncompromising stance against drug trafficking, with no leniency shown towards violators of the law. He detailed the outcomes of the campaign 'Yudh Nashean Virudh,' which has led to the arrest of 95,881 drug smugglers and suppliers since March 2022. Additionally, 71,228 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act during this period.
The crackdown has resulted in the seizure of 6,109 major or commercial consignments of drugs, with 10,085 major traffickers apprehended. Special attention has been given to drug hotspots, leading to the recovery of substantial quantities of illicit substances, including 5,625 kilograms of heroin, 3,461 kilograms of opium, 1,628 quintals of poppy husk, and approximately 4.96 crore injections, tablets, capsules, and syrups.
Financial recoveries have also been significant, with over Rs 54 crore in drug money retrieved and properties worth Rs 772 crore seized from 1,556 smugglers. Furthermore, 3,440 proclaimed offenders in NDPS cases have been arrested, underscoring the government's commitment to pursuing all individuals involved in the drug trade.
Organized Crime Crackdown and Police Modernization Efforts
Highlighting actions against organized crime, Mann noted that since the formation of the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF), law enforcement has arrested 2,858 gangsters and criminals, neutralized 35 individuals, and busted 1,105 gangs. The AGTF has also recovered 2,267 weapons and 655 vehicles used in criminal activities.
From April 6, 2022, to March 2026, the AGTF has solved 38 sensational cases, including major murder investigations, extortion rackets, bank robberies, gang arrests, and terror-linked conspiracies across Punjab and nearby regions. This demonstrates the enhanced capabilities of the state's law enforcement agencies in tackling complex criminal enterprises.
Mann also pointed to record police recruitment, modernization initiatives, and the establishment of the Sadak Surakhya Force as key measures that have strengthened law enforcement in Punjab. These reforms are aimed at improving public safety and boosting investor confidence in the state.
Border Security and Anti-Drone System Implementation
Addressing border security concerns, Mann highlighted that Punjab shares approximately 560 kilometers of border with Pakistan. To combat the cross-border supply of drugs and weapons, the state government has installed an anti-drone system, making Punjab the first state in India to deploy such technology.
Mann revealed that the state government utilized its own resources to fund this system after the central government did not provide assistance. The anti-drone system has already produced results, with 806 drones recovered, 1,472 drone movements detected, and 341 illegal weapons recovered via drones, effectively curbing smuggling activities.
Criticism of Previous Regimes and Accountability
Taking aim at previous administrations, particularly the Akali leadership, Mann accused them of patronizing gangsters and allowing criminal networks to flourish. He stated that those who promoted drug culture in Punjab are now attempting to rewrite history but cannot escape accountability.
"Everyone knows who gave tickets to gangsters and appointed them as Halqa in-charges. These leaders are responsible for the rise of gangster culture and are still extending legal and other support to such elements," Mann asserted, emphasizing the contrast with his government's proactive measures.
In conclusion, Mann reaffirmed the government's commitment to ensuring exemplary punishment for law violators and maintaining a secure environment for Punjab's residents. The comprehensive report card underscores the AAP government's efforts to transform the state's law and order scenario through rigorous enforcement and strategic reforms.
