The district administration of Tarn Taran uncovered an illegal drug de-addiction centre on Chabal Road near the leprosy colony on Friday, rescuing 52 patients who were allegedly held in inhumane conditions. The operator, Kawaljit Singh alias Bahadur, is absconding, and police have registered a case against him under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Raid Details and Seizures
According to ASI Amarjit Singh of the city police, all 52 patients were confined to a single room. During the raid, authorities recovered medicines, vaccines, Aadhaar cards, mobile phones, and a CCTV surveillance system from the premises. Officials stated that the medicines were not authorised, and investigations are ongoing to determine if the NDPS Act or other laws were violated.
The operation was conducted on the directives of the Deputy Commissioner. The raiding team included Deputy Medical Commissioner Dr Rupam Chaudhary, Tehsildar Archana Sharma, SHO (city) Gagandeep Singh, social worker Dr S S Lauhuka, and other officials. Following the raid, the centre was sealed.
Patient Allegations
Rescued patients alleged that the operator charged between Rs 15,000 and Rs 17,000 per patient each month. Those who objected or resisted were subjected to severe physical abuse. Patients claimed they had been confined for three to four months and were not allowed to leave the complex. All 52 inmates were housed in a single room with extremely poor living conditions, inadequate sanitation, and no proper washrooms.
"The operator used to beat us if we complained," one patient stated. Another added, "We were locked in and could not contact our families."
Legal Action and Aftermath
A case has been registered against Kawaljit Singh under Sections 318(2), 318(4), 127(2), 127(3), and 127(4) of the BNS. Police teams have been dispatched to arrest him. The rescued patients have been shifted to the Government De-addiction Centre in Tharu for treatment and care.
Deputy Medical Commissioner Dr Rupam Chaudhary said, "The conditions were deplorable. We are ensuring the patients receive proper medical attention." The investigation continues to determine if any other individuals were involved.
