Fazilka Village Residents Protest Alleged Police Inaction Over Drug-Related Deaths
In a dramatic escalation of community outrage, residents of Balluana village in Fazilka district have staged a forceful protest, demanding immediate intervention from civil administration and police authorities following a surge in youth deaths allegedly linked to drug addiction. The protestors gathered at the Jalalabad City police station to formally submit a complaint against local drug peddlers, highlighting what they described as "the deaths of at least 6 youths owing to drug abuse" in recent months.
Systemic Failures and Open Drug Trade
The protest represents a significant setback for the Punjab government's much-publicized "war against drugs" campaign, particularly in the Dalit basti of Balluana. Villagers allege that the trade in dangerous substances, including the synthetic drug Chitta, continues openly within their community. Despite this activity occurring virtually under the nose of the local police station, residents claim the police administration has remained passive, with what they characterize as "eyes closed" to the crisis.
"These are not just deaths due to drugs, but murders due to the negligence of the police," asserted one protester, capturing the community's growing frustration. The villagers contend that the tragic loss of young lives reflects deeper systemic failures in law enforcement and drug control measures.
Community Mobilization and Direct Confrontation
Hundreds of villagers, led by their Gram Panchayat, surrounded the police station in a show of collective strength, raising powerful slogans against perceived police inaction. Prior to this direct confrontation, a large gathering was convened within the village itself, where community members unanimously passed a resolution demanding comprehensive measures to prevent drug abuse.
The gathering included prominent community figures such as Anil Kumar (husband of the female sarpanch), former sarpanches Tilak Raj and Duli Chand Bhalla, along with panchayat members Suraj Kumar, Tinku Kumar, Ram Prasad, and Shishu Ram. Speaking with one voice, these leaders directly blamed police administration for the crisis and issued a stern warning.
"If strict action is not taken against drug smugglers even now, our next struggle will not be limited to the police station alone, but will be taken to the offices of higher officials," declared the community representatives, signaling their readiness to escalate protests if their demands remain unmet.
Personal Tragedies and Revelations
The protest was triggered by the recent death of 22-year-old Gagandeep Singh alias Gaggi, who succumbed to alleged drug abuse, creating panic throughout Balluana. Former Sarpanch Tilak Raj revealed that residents, transcending political affiliations, have repeatedly approached local police demanding decisive action.
"More than 6 youths from our village have already fallen prey. We cannot afford to lose another child," Raj stated emotionally. Community members further alleged that despite numerous complaints and available information about local drug supply networks, authorities have failed to take effective measures.
During the protest, a shocking revelation emerged when a youth publicly admitted to selling drugs within the village, claiming he had "no fear of any kind." This brazen confession ignited further anger among villagers, who then marched directly to the city police station to demand accountability.
Escalating Death Toll and Official Response
Villagers now claim the death toll has risen to 9 youths from their community, all allegedly due to drug abuse. They express frustration that police have neither apprehended any major drug smugglers nor demonstrated strong punitive action that could serve as a deterrent.
When contacted for comment, Gurmeet Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) for Fazilka, acknowledged the seriousness of the situation. "Special teams have been sent to the village to look into the matter," the SSP confirmed. Reiterating his commitment to the war against drugs, Singh promised strict legal action against drug peddlers operating in the area and warned that "if any police officer is found involved, he will be dealt with firmly."
The confrontation in Balluana highlights growing tensions between rural communities and law enforcement agencies in Punjab's ongoing struggle against drug proliferation, with villagers now taking matters into their own hands through organized protest and direct demands for accountability.
