Punjab CM Mann Blames Past Governments for Drug Abuse Rise

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has strongly criticized previous state governments for what he described as their failure to tackle the drug menace, holding them responsible for the current rise in substance abuse across the state. Speaking at a public event, Mann said that the foundations of the crisis were laid years ago due to negligence, political interference, and a lack of serious enforcement.

According to Mann, drug networks were allowed to thrive under earlier administrations because of political patronage and corruption within law enforcement. “The youth of Punjab were abandoned to the drug mafia, while those in power turned a blind eye,” he said. “This government will not allow such betrayal to continue.”

The Chief Minister highlighted that the drug problem in Punjab is not a recent development but the result of years of unchecked trafficking and poor rehabilitation measures. He claimed that many drug suppliers operated openly during the tenure of previous governments, enjoying protection in exchange for political gains.

Mann assured citizens that his government is taking a zero-tolerance approach. He outlined a multi-pronged strategy, including intensified police crackdowns on smugglers, strengthening border security to curb drug inflow, and expanding de-addiction and rehabilitation centres across the state. He also promised to increase funding for educational programs that raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse among school and college students.

“We are committed to dismantling the entire supply chain—from the smuggler at the border to the peddler in the village. But to win this war, we also need community participation,” he added. Mann urged parents, teachers, and community leaders to help guide the youth towards sports, skill development, and productive careers rather than falling into the trap of addiction.

Opposition leaders, however, have criticized Mann for shifting the blame rather than focusing solely on present solutions. They argue that while the role of past governments should be acknowledged, the current administration must show measurable progress in reducing drug availability and usage.

Experts note that Punjab’s location near international borders has made it particularly vulnerable to drug trafficking, especially heroin smuggled from across the border. However, they also stress that without political will and transparent enforcement, the cycle of addiction and supply will be hard to break.

Mann concluded his speech with a warning to drug peddlers and corrupt officials: “Your days are numbered. We are coming for you, and there will be no safe haven for those who profit from destroying our youth.”

The government is expected to roll out new anti-drug initiatives in the coming months, and public pressure is mounting for quick and visible results. With drug abuse posing both a health and law-and-order challenge, Punjab’s fight against this menace remains a top political and social priority.