Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav on Tuesday conducted a high-level meeting with all the Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) and Commissioners of Police (CPs) to set clear responsibilities and accelerate anti-drug operations in the state. DGP Yadav's meeting was called as the deadline to make Punjab a drug-free state is nearing. Bhagwant Singh Mann government has promised to make Punjab a drug-free state by May 31. Under this, Punjab Police is running 'Yudh Nashiyan Virudh' Campaign under which the cops are taking strict actions against drug smugglers and peddlers.
Addressing the press conference after the high-level meeting, DGP Gaurav Yadav stated that accountability has been assigned not just to senior officials but also at the SHO and DSP levels. "In the meeting, discussions went on regarding how many FIRs were registered in each district. What were their achievements, and where was there a gap? Every officer, every district SSP, the Commissioner of Police, and Range DIGs were asked to present their plans on how Punjab can be made a drug-free state by May 31, 2025. Accountability will be fixed up to the SHO level. Every SHO, every Sub Divisional DSP will be responsible and accountable in his own area." said DGP Gaurav Yadav.
DGP Yadav further said, "District-wise action plans have been prepared, and a comprehensive review of the campaign’s success will be conducted after May 31..Officers showing exceptional performance will be rewarded, while those falling short will face disciplinary action.”
755 Drug Hotspots identified and Jail Surveillance to be intensified
The DGP emphasized a targeted approach, highlighting 755 identified hotspots across Punjab that will be under constant surveillance. He also noted that drug smuggling via drones across the international border remains a major concern. "We have already made considerable progress in disrupting the supply chain," Yadav added. "Advanced technology will be used to dismantle the networks of drug traffickers."
Jails across the state will also come under scrutiny to curb the nexus operating from within prison walls.
“Yudh Nashiyan Virudh” campaign has been intensified since March 1, 2025 by the Punjab Police. In this period alone, 4,659 FIRs have been registered under the NDPS Act, leading to the arrest of 7,414 drug traffickers, including 1,877 major suppliers or “big fish.”
Additionally, nearly 70 drug traffickers’ properties have been demolished using bulldozers, and 31 hawala operators have been apprehended. The state government and police leadership have reiterated their commitment to making Punjab drug-free, calling the next month critical in achieving this goal.