Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh has strongly criticised the Central Government for its alleged inability to curb the increasing drug trafficking incidents in the state, particularly those involving drones from across the border. He accused the Centre of sidelining Punjab and using various tactics to weaken the state’s position.
Raising concerns about drone-based drug smuggling, Dr. Singh questioned how the Centre, which claims to have robust systems to prevent aerial attacks, is failing to intercept drones carrying narcotics. Speaking on behalf of Punjab’s 3 crore residents, he said the people will not let these illicit attempts succeed.
While visiting the villages of Ichhewal, Rohti Basta, and Rohti Maura as part of an anti-drug awareness drive, Dr. Singh reflected on how synthetic drugs like ‘chitta’ were nearly non-existent in Punjab 25 years ago but have now spread widely—something he attributed to the negligence and complicity of past administrations.
To combat the crisis, Dr. Singh announced the formation of Village and Ward Defence Committees, tasked with keeping an eye on local drug-related activity and informing the authorities. He encouraged young people, women, sarpanches, and panchayat members to stay vigilant and support efforts to create a drug-free Punjab.
He further called for close cooperation between the public, police, and local administration, and promoted the state’s confidential WhatsApp helpline (97791-00200) as a safe channel to report any drug activity. The Health Minister also urged families to encourage individuals battling addiction to seek help at government-run rehabilitation centres.
