AAP Hails Village Defence Committees as Key Warriors in Punjab's Drug War
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has strongly endorsed the role of village defence committees (VDCs) in Punjab, describing them as "frontline warriors" and the state government's "eyes and ears" in the ongoing battle against the drug mafia. According to the party, every piece of information received through these committees is acted upon directly and without any delay, ensuring swift action against illicit activities.
Confidentiality and Regular Reviews Ensure Effectiveness
Baltej Pannu, AAP's Punjab state media incharge, emphasized that the identity of VDC members providing information remains strictly confidential to protect them from potential retaliation. He highlighted that weekly or fortnightly review meetings are being conducted in each village and ward across Punjab to identify and monitor drug hotspots. "In the past 15 days alone, more than 300 drug peddlers have been arrested with the help of VDC inputs, resulting in a significant crackdown," Pannu stated, underscoring the tangible impact of these committees.
Digital Tools and Proactive Measures Enhance Operations
Pannu detailed that in every village and ward of Punjab, a village defence committee has been formed by bringing together eight to ten aware citizens. He contrasted this initiative with past efforts, noting that it is not a mere paper exercise, unlike what he claimed was done by Captain Amarinder Singh in 2018. "Today, every member has a special app through which direct information about drug sellers reaches the police headquarters and the chief minister's office," he explained.
This digital approach has led to over 1,400 complaints being received through the app so far, with strict action taken and FIRs registered in response. The integration of technology ensures that information flows seamlessly to authorities, enabling prompt interventions and reinforcing the committees' role as a critical component in Punjab's anti-drug strategy.
The AAP's praise for the VDCs reflects their commitment to leveraging community involvement and modern tools to combat the drug menace, positioning these committees as essential allies in maintaining law and order in the state.
