AAP Government's Unyielding War on Drug Trafficking in Punjab
In a powerful address to the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema delivered a resolute message on behalf of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government: "drug money" will not be permitted to construct lavish mansions within the state. Responding to queries from Payal MLA Manwinder Singh Giaspura, Cheema outlined the aggressive and comprehensive measures undertaken during the one-year 'Yudh Nashean Virudh' (War Against Drugs) campaign, which spanned from March 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026.
Massive Enforcement and Arrests Under NDPS Act
Cheema, speaking on behalf of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, revealed staggering statistics that underscore the government's all-out offensive against narcotics. The campaign, which integrated strict law enforcement, proactive community engagement, and widespread preventive education, resulted in 36,178 First Information Reports (FIRs) being registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Furthermore, a total of 47,902 individuals were arrested in connection with these cases, demonstrating the scale of the crackdown.
Targeting the Entire Drug Supply Chain
The finance minister emphasized that the AAP administration targeted every link in the drug supply chain, from street-level distributors to high-level kingpins. Specifically, authorities apprehended 3,173 drug suppliers and distributors, along with 429 major operatives described as "big fish" orchestrating the illicit trade. The seizures during this period were monumental and included:
- 2,276 kilograms of heroin
- 29 tonnes of poppy husk
- 686 kilograms of opium
- 786 kilograms of marijuana
- 68 kilograms of charas
- 4 kilograms of cocaine
- 36 kilograms of ICE (crystal meth)
- Over 49 lakh illicit pills and capsules
In a significant technological countermeasure, Punjab Police intercepted 285 drones used for smuggling and confiscated 338 kilograms of heroin transported via these unmanned aerial vehicles, effectively severing a critical supply route.
Crippling Financial Networks and Asset Seizures
Cheema asserted that the government is striking at the financial heart of drug cartels to inflict maximum damage. Police recovered ₹17 crore in direct drug money and arrested 65 major operators, which led to the dismantling of illicit hawala networks across the region. To prevent the laundering of drug profits into real estate, the state took decisive action by demolishing 323 illegally constructed properties belonging to drug smugglers and freezing illegally acquired assets valued at ₹241 crore linked to 569 drug smugglers.
"The Punjab government will not allow drug money to build mansions in Punjab," Cheema declared, directly accusing previous administrations led by the Congress and SAD-BJP of failing to adequately address the narcotics crisis.
Record Conviction Rates and Legal Pursuits
Highlighting the importance of judicial outcomes for long-term deterrence, Cheema reported that out of 6,822 decided cases, an impressive 6,083 resulted in convictions, achieving a national-high conviction rate of 89%. This success was attributed to modernization efforts such as digital evidence collection and rigorous financial tracking. Additionally, Punjab Police arrested 47 proclaimed offenders, 636 absconders, 83 bail jumpers, and 8 parole jumpers under the NDPS Act, ensuring that fugitives are brought to justice.
Opposition Concerns and Calls for Transparency
During the session, MLA Manwinder Singh Giaspura raised concerns that many individuals arrested in drug cases are subsequently released on bail with alleged support from drug smugglers. He urged the government to formulate a policy that would publicly disclose the names of those who secure bail for NDPS Act detainees, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability within the legal process.
The AAP government's presentation in the Vidhan Sabha marks a bold declaration of its ongoing commitment to eradicating drug trafficking and its associated financial crimes, positioning Punjab at the forefront of India's battle against narcotics.
