Ministers Dhaliwal, Khudian lead VDCs in battle against drugs
Statewide Anti-Drug Yatra to begin May 7: three villages per block per day
Ferozepur, May 2, 2025 – In a strong push against the drug menace, Punjab Cabinet Ministers Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal (NRI Affairs) and Gurmeet Singh Khuddian (Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, Dairy, Agriculture, and Farmers Welfare) held a crucial meeting with Village Defense Committees (VDCs) under the campaign "War Against Drugs."
HARISH MONGA
Addressing the gathering, Minister Dhaliwal emphasised that the first step towards a drug-free Punjab is to cleanse the villages. He termed VDCs as the "first line of defence" and the greatest strength in this battle. He accused previous governments of allowing the drug trade to flourish under political protection and assured that the present Aam Aadmi Party government, under CM Bhagwant Mann, is committed to uprooting the drug network.
Minister Khuddian announced that from May 7, an anti-drug awareness yatra will be launched across Punjab, covering three villages per block per day. VDCs will take charge of these rallies, supported by BDOS and SHOs, to spread awareness among the youth. Recovered addicts will also share their experiences to inspire others.
MLAs Jagdeep Singh, Goldy Kamboj, Ranbir Bhullar, Rajneesh Dahiya, Fauja Singh Sarari, and Naresh Kataria were present and encouraged local participation, stating that real warriors in this fight are villagers safeguarding their homes and children.
Deputy Commissioner Deeptishikha Sharma urged VDCs to remain vigilant and report any drug activity. SSP Bhupinder Singh Sidhu highlighted recent police actions and promised complete confidentiality for informers.
The ministers administered an oath of commitment to VDC members to support a drug-free Punjab. Senior officials, including ADCs and SDMs, also attended the event.