Punjab Govt launches reward policy to crack down on Gangsters, names of 28 most wanted criminals released
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, April 11, 2026: In a major push to curb organised crime, the Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab Government has introduced a new reward policy to incentivise informants who provide credible information on wanted criminals and gangster networks. Alongside the announcement, the government has also released a list of 28 most wanted criminals operating in the state.
The initiative, rolled out under the ongoing anti-gangster campaign ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’, authorises Punjab Police officials to grant monetary rewards to informants based on the value of intelligence shared.
The sanctioned reward limits have been structured across ranks—up to ₹1 lakh by Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs), ₹1.5 lakh by Commissioners of Police/Range IGs/DIGs, ₹2 lakh by Heads of Wings (Special DGPs/ADGPs), and amounts exceeding ₹2 lakh to be approved by the Director General of Police (DGP).
Officials emphasised that rewards will only be granted after thorough verification of the information. Importantly, the identity of informants will remain strictly confidential at all levels.
According to Pramod Ban, ADGP, AGTF, the policy aims to strengthen public participation in tackling crime. “The goal is to shut all avenues for criminals and gangsters. The government is committed to taking every possible step to ensure safety in the state,” he said.
To facilitate information sharing, the government has operationalised an Anti-Gangster Helpline (93946-93946). Informants whose inputs lead to the arrest of wanted criminals, proclaimed offenders, or habitual offenders will be eligible for rewards.
Authorities assured that each case will be evaluated individually, considering the seriousness of the offence, risk involved, and quality of intelligence.
The move is expected to further bolster Operation Prahaar, enhancing intelligence gathering and strengthening the police network across Punjab.
Meanwhile, as part of the ‘Gangstran Te Vaar’ campaign, Punjab Police has intensified enforcement actions across the state. So far, 56,487 raids have been conducted at locations linked to gangster associates. The crackdown has resulted in 19,894 arrests, preventive action against 9,353 individuals, and verification of 15,284 persons, who were later released after questioning. Additionally, 851 proclaimed offenders have been apprehended.
Authorities have urged citizens to come forward and share information anonymously, reiterating that public cooperation is key to making Punjab a gangster-free state.