Punjab Minister Harpal Singh Cheema strongly criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Akali Dal, accusing them of being responsible for introducing drugs into the state. Speaking to the media, he claimed that drug-related issues began in Punjab during their tenure, and now the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is working to eliminate the problem.

Cheema highlighted the state’s recent crackdown on drug trafficking, stating that over 872 FIRs had been registered in just the last 1.5 weeks. However, in an apparent slip, he mentioned that "1,200 crore people" had been arrested, a figure far exceeding the global population. He further noted that authorities had seized drugs worth ₹35 lakh and recovered more than eight quintals of poppy husk. Reaffirming Punjab’s commitment to fighting the drug menace, Cheema emphasized that strict action would be taken against offenders as per Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s directives.

The Punjab Police, under its ‘War Against Drugs’ initiative, has intensified its anti-drug operations across the state. Recent efforts included 524 raids, leading to the arrest of 69 drug smugglers and the registration of 53 FIRs. Additionally, 164 pharmaceutical shops were inspected in six districts to curb the sale of illegal drugs. The operation, which involved 1,900 personnel, resulted in the seizure of 1.5 kg of heroin, 100g of opium, 7,610 intoxicant tablets, and ₹1.33 lakh in drug money. Authorities also conducted 161 awareness programs to educate the public about drug abuse. On Sunday, AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal reinforced the party’s tough stance against drug dealers. He declared that the Punjab government had launched an aggressive campaign to eradicate drugs, vowing that those involved in drug peddling would not be spared.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from @HarpalCheemaMLA