Punjab has recently taken significant steps to combat its growing drug crisis. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann formally inaugurated the new office of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) and launched both an Anti-Drug Helpline and WhatsApp Chatbot to engage the community actively in countering drug trafficking. The ANTF, previously known as the Special Task Force, will operate from its new location in Mohali's Sector 79, where recent renovations were made at a cost of Rs 90 lakh.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Mann emphasized the importance of grassroots involvement. He stated, "The helpline will provide ordinary citizens and drug addicts the opportunity to inform about drug traffickers and to seek medical help for those who are ready to undergo de-addiction." The anonymity of informants is guaranteed, which should encourage more individuals to step forward without fear of reprisal.
To strengthen its capabilities, the Punjab government announced plans to double the existing manpower of the ANTF from 400 to 861 officers. This personnel upgrade is part of a broader initiative involving the creation of 10,000 new police positions statewide. Mann views this expansion as pivotal to enhancing the effectiveness of drug law enforcement across Punjab.
Financially, the Punjab government is backing the initiative with substantial allocations. A budget of Rs 12 crore has been set aside for the current fiscal year to modernize the ANTF's Intelligence and Technical Unit, which includes procuring new technology and improving overall infrastructure. The plan also outlines the purchase of 14 new Mahindra Scorpio vehicles to boost mobility for task force personnel.
An additional Rs 10 crore will be sourced from the Punjab State Cancer and Drug Addiction Treatment Infrastructure Fund (CADA Fund) to implement new strategies for enforcement, de-addiction, and prevention.
During the launch event, Mann affirmed, "This task force is not merely old wine in new bottles. It has been equipped with additional manpower, resources, and technology to tackle our drug issues more effectively." His administration is committed to banning the illegal drug trade and has put mechanisms in place to eliminate political patronage of drug trafficking operations.
Providing incentives for drug-free communities, Mann announced special grants for villages successfully achieving drug-free status. These funds are aimed at promoting sports and developing sports infrastructure, channeling the energy of the youth positively and reducing the temptation to engage with drugs.
While emphasizing the need for sports development, Mann noted the remarkable achievements by Punjab's athletes at international events like the Olympics. He expressed optimism, stating, “The day is not far when Punjabi youth will bag more medals.”
Mann's administration has also had successes previously; properties worth Rs 173 crore belonging to 379 drug smugglers have been confiscated, underscoring the state's commitment to tackling drug-related crime at all levels.
Besides increasing law enforcement capabilities, Punjab police have been assigned special law officers at every police precinct to manage and sustain legal proceedings for drug-related cases, ensuring justice is served efficiently.
Reflecting on the broader socio-economic impacts of this campaign, Mann detected positive trends among the youth. He reported significant increases in school admissions, indicating the community's shift away from substance abuse. The Chief Minister expressed pride, noting, “It is heartening to see desired results being produced and the youth becoming active partners in the socio-economic progress of the state.”
Overall, the actions taken under Mann's leadership point toward a comprehensive approach to reform law enforcement and swifter judicial processes, all aimed at freeing Punjab from the grip of narcotics. This holistic strategy acknowledges the complex interplay between drug trafficking, local governance issues, and community engagement. Mann hopes the state's residents will embrace these initiatives against the drug threat and help nurture Punjab's youth through constructive means.
