AMRITSAR: Punjab’s ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has intensified its campaign against societal ills, with senior leader Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal stating that the state government is actively investigating the fundamental causes of corruption, drug trafficking, and gangsterism. The government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is committed to eradicating these issues through a scientific approach and aims to usher in a comprehensive transformation by the 2027 Assembly elections.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Dhaliwal made these remarks while addressing public gatherings in villages within the Ajnala constituency as part of the initiative “Four Magnificent Years with Bhagwant Mann.” He articulated a strong critique of previous administrations, asserting that their policies had fostered the growth of unemployment, drug abuse, and crime, thereby deepening societal problems. Dhaliwal claimed that the current government has successfully begun to dismantle this cycle over its initial four years and is now prioritizing the identification and elimination of the underlying reasons for these persistent issues. He indicated that decisive measures would be implemented in the coming years to ensure the permanent eradication of these challenges.
In detailing the government’s achievements, Dhaliwal highlighted the ongoing anti-drug campaign that commenced in March 2025. He reported that this campaign has led to the seizure of properties valued at Rs 760 crore and confiscated drug proceeds amounting to Rs 15 crore. The operations have also resulted in the arrest of over 92,000 individuals involved in drug trafficking, with seizures including 5,480 kg of heroin. Furthermore, 64 hawala operators were apprehended during these efforts.
The AAP leader emphasized that the government’s strategy extends beyond immediate enforcement actions. The focus on understanding the root causes, he explained, is crucial for developing sustainable solutions that address the socio-economic and psychological factors contributing to the prevalence of drugs and crime. This includes examining issues such as unemployment, lack of opportunities, and the role of organized criminal networks, which previous governments allegedly allowed to flourish.
Dhaliwal pointed to the achievements in curbing the drug menace as evidence of the government’s commitment and effectiveness. The substantial value of seized assets and finances, coupled with the large number of arrests and significant quantities of narcotics intercepted, demonstrates a robust and determined effort. The apprehension of hawala operators, he added, targets the financial infrastructure supporting these illegal activities, aiming to disrupt their operations at multiple levels.
The initiative “Four Magnificent Years with Bhagwant Mann” aims to showcase the government’s performance across various sectors and engage directly with the electorate to gather feedback and address concerns. The dialogue programs in villages are designed to foster a sense of community involvement and transparency in governance. Dhaliwal asserted that the AAP government is dedicated to fulfilling its promises and creating a drug-free, corruption-free, and crime-free Punjab.
The approach of studying root causes is a departure from conventional methods that often focus solely on punitive measures. By delving into the underlying issues, the Punjab government seeks to implement more effective and long-term strategies. This includes potential interventions in education, employment generation, and rehabilitation programs to support individuals affected by drug addiction and to prevent future involvement in criminal activities.
Dhaliwal further stated that the government is committed to a complete overhaul of the system, promising a “revolution” after the 2027 elections. This vision encompasses broader reforms aimed at improving governance, enhancing public services, and fostering economic development across the state. The emphasis remains on creating a Punjab where citizens can live without fear of crime or the pervasive threat of drugs, and where opportunities are available to all.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
