Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann will review the state government’s ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ (War Against Drugs) campaign at a high-level meeting in Phillaur on Friday, October 16. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) senior leader Baltej Pannu shared the information, stating that senior Punjab Police officers and administrative officials from all districts will participate in the meeting.
The meeting comes amid heightened attention on Punjab’s anti-drug campaign following the killing of anti-drug activist Parvinder Singh Jhota in Mansa on October 13. The incident has triggered widespread public outrage and renewed scrutiny of the state’s efforts to tackle drug-related activities.
Main Accused Arrested in Jhota Murder Case
Parvinder Singh Jhota, known for his campaign against drug abuse, was allegedly shot dead during a confrontation involving medical store owner Ashwani Kumar in Mansa on October 13. The incident prompted demands for a thorough investigation and accountability.
On October 14, the Punjab Police arrested the main accused in Salasar, Rajasthan, with assistance from Rajasthan Police. The accused was subsequently being brought to Punjab for further investigation. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the killing and the possible involvement of other individuals.
Medical Store and Property Demolitions in Mansa
Tensions escalated on October 14 when protesters reportedly used a bulldozer to demolish a medical store allegedly linked to the accused and later set it on fire. A portion of the accused’s house was also demolished amid allegations of unauthorised construction.
The developments drew further attention to the case as Jhota’s supporters demanded swift justice. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the murder and related developments.
CM Bhagwant Mann Assures Strict Action
Reacting to the killing, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann condemned the incident and assured that those responsible would face strict action under the law. He said the matter would be investigated thoroughly and that anyone found involved in the crime or a conspiracy would not be spared.
The Chief Minister also appealed to people to maintain peace and warned against taking the law into their own hands. His remarks came amid growing public concern over the safety of those campaigning against drugs and the effectiveness of anti-drug enforcement in the state.
Senior Officials from All Districts to Attend Review
According to Baltej Pannu, the meeting in Phillaur will include SSPs, Deputy Commissioners (DCs), Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) and Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) from every district of Punjab.
The review is expected to focus on the progress of the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ campaign, coordination between police and civil administration, action against drug trafficking networks, and the implementation of district-level strategies.
The meeting assumes added significance as the government faces renewed public scrutiny over its anti-drug efforts following Jhota’s killing. The review will provide an opportunity for officials to assess ongoing operations, identify gaps and strengthen enforcement across Punjab.
