YUDH NASHEYA VIRUDHH: Crackdown on drug abuse, Ludhiana DIG range arrest 632 peddlers and register 479 cases from Jan 1 to April 3

Ludhiana, April 5, 2025: Under the ‘Yudh Nasheya Virudh’ campaign launched by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the police districts Khanna, Ludhiana Rural and SBS Nagar, under DIG Ludhiana Range have demonstrated a strong commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking. 

Between January 1 and April 3, 2025, police authorities registered 479 cases under the NDPS Act and arrested 632 accused individuals, reflecting the police’s unwavering resolve to eliminate the drug menace from the region.

DIG Ludhiana Range Nilambari Jagadale, accompanied by SSPs Jyoti Yadav, Dr. Ankur Gupta, and Dr. Mehtab Singh, provided details of the extensive crackdown, which has led to significant drug seizures. The confiscated narcotics include 10.63 kg of opium, 20.89 quintals of poppy husk, 5 kg of charas, 7.22 kg of ganja, 3.13 kg of heroin, 312 grams of intoxicant powder, 30 grams of ICE, and 16,465 pills. Additionally, drug money amounting to Rs. 1.14 lakh was recovered, further disrupting illicit drug networks in the area.

In a stern measure against drug peddlers, the police demolished 15 illegal constructions on encroached government land, with plans to bulldoze 20 more in the coming days. Authorities have also attached properties worth Rs. 33, 98, 96,230 belonging to drug traffickers, sending a strong message that crime will not pay. Beyond enforcement, the police have actively engaged communities through awareness initiatives. Since January 1, 954 SAMPARK meetings have been conducted to educate the public, along with 19 sports tournaments and 555 interactions with Village Defence Committees. These efforts aim to deter youth from drug abuse and foster community participation in the fight against narcotics.

The campaign has also encouraged more individuals to seek rehabilitation. 47 persons have been admitted to de-addiction centers, with 42 successfully rehabilitated and free from drug dependency. Notably, drug de-addiction and OOAT centers in Ludhiana Rural, SBS Nagar, and Khanna have witnessed a 50% increase in patient registrations, indicating growing awareness and willingness to seek help.

DIG Nilambari Jagadale emphasized that this multi-pronged approach—combining strict enforcement, public awareness, and rehabilitation support—reflects the police’s dedication to creating a drug-free society. She expressed confidence that sustained efforts under ‘Yudh Nasheya Virudh’ will lead to lasting change, ensuring a safer and healthier future for Punjab.