Chandigarh, September 21, 2025 — Punjab’s war against drugs, spearheaded by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann under the “Yudh Nashian Virudh” campaign, entered its 204th consecutive day on Sunday. Police across the state carried out raids at 374 locations, resulting in the arrest of 89 drug smugglers and the registration of 78 FIRs. With the latest action, the total number of smugglers arrested has climbed to 30,440 since the campaign began.
During the raids, the police seized 4.5 kg of heroin, 2.3 kg of ganja, 1,524 intoxicant tablets and capsules, and ₹59,810 in drug money. Officials said the operations are part of a relentless effort to root out the narcotics network and dismantle its financial base.
Chief Minister Mann has directed Commissioners of Police, Deputy Commissioners, and Senior Superintendents of Police to intensify the drive and ensure Punjab becomes drug-free. To closely monitor progress, the government has constituted a five-member Cabinet Sub-Committee headed by Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema.
On Sunday, more than 150 police teams comprising over 1,100 personnel and supervised by 79 gazetted officers were deployed across the state. Teams also checked 393 suspicious individuals as part of the sweeping crackdown.
The Punjab government is implementing a three-pronged strategy of Enforcement, De-addiction, and Prevention (EDP). Alongside arrests, police officers convinced 48 individuals to voluntarily undergo treatment at de-addiction and rehabilitation centers. Officials say this balanced approach is critical to achieving long-term success in curbing drug abuse.
