Punjab: The ‘Yuddh Nashe Viruddh’ campaign launched by the Punjab government is a laudable step towards eradicating the curse of drug abuse and drug abuse. One wonders why it took more than two years to adopt these stringent measures. The government claims that in the 12 days from February 25 till now, 875 FIRs were registered, 1,188 drug peddlers were arrested and 68 kg heroin, 42 kg opium, 873 kg poppy husk and over 6 lakh narcotic pills were seized. While this is a step in the right direction, more needs to be done. The state government should adopt a multi-pronged approach to tackle drug abuse, focusing on prevention, enforcement and rehabilitation. Starting from the panchayat members, sarpanch, BDO, SDM, deputy commissioner, MLA, MP and the state police force, everyone should be collectively and individually responsible for the elimination of drug trafficking and drug use. It is disturbing that some retired police officers lament political interference during the arrest of wrongdoers. There is a need for de-addiction and rehabilitation centres for drug addicts. Dope tests should be conducted on suspected drug addicts and those found positive should be sent to de-addiction centres. The emphasis should be on the elimination of users rather than sellers. If there are no buyers, sellers will disappear. Vigorous campaigns need to be launched at school, college and university levels to educate the youth about the dangers of toxic consumption and drug addiction. The state government should collaborate with central agencies for a coordinated approach against drug cartels. By combining strong law enforcement with public awareness, healthcare and rehabilitation efforts, the state government can substantially reduce drug abuse and its associated social problems. The government should monitor and regulate the sale of prescription drugs that have a high potential for abuse. Also, there should be a crackdown on illegal online pharmacies selling controlled substances without prescription. Educate doctors and pharmacists about responsible prescription practices. Bhola Singh Sidhu
Consistent efforts needed
Drug abuse by youth in Punjab has now become an epidemic. It is linked to rising crime rates, huge economic losses and diminished public safety. According to a survey, seven out of 10 college-going students are involved in drug abuse. ‘Yuddh Nashe Viruddh’ is a great initiative. Other steps should include vocational training, cash incentives, job placements, free medicines and motivational sessions for youth willing to quit drugs. Emphasis should be on building more de-addiction and mindfulness centres. Drug peddlers should receive heavy punishment. Anti-drug campaigns should be run at school and college levels. The social stigma associated with drug abuse needs to be removed. Families of drug abusers should also be counselled. Consistent efforts are needed by the government and the community to end this epidemic and help make Punjab drug-free and prosperous again.
Focus on big drug peddlers
The Punjab government’s campaign against drug abuse is just a sham. Big fish are being let off, while petty couriers and consumers are being put behind bars by filing FIRs. It is no secret that local police are usually in cahoots with smugglers. If the government really wants to nab drug traffickers, it should go after the big fish of the illicit trade. Their intelligence agencies have all the information about the big smugglers. The government should take action against these smugglers through the police of other districts, as smugglers usually have ‘contacts’ in the local police.
Strengthen rehabilitation
The success of the ‘war against drugs’ depends on a multi-pronged approach: strengthening rehabilitation services, increasing community support and ensuring strict adherence to the NDPS Act within legal parameters. While the intention to tackle the drug menace is commendable, its effectiveness, especially with regard to rehabilitation centres, demands scrutiny. However, the goal of providing comprehensive care, including rehabilitation and continuous recovery, remains a challenge. Data shows that relapse rates are alarmingly high. While exact figures are difficult to determine, studies indicate that a significant percentage of patients, often over 70 percent, struggle to maintain abstinence after rehabilitation. This highlights the need for strong aftercare and community support systems. The scale of the drug problem requires more substantial investment and better monitoring. For example, while the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) has funded hundreds of rehabilitation centers, the availability of long-term support and job training programs is still low.
