Chandigarh, January 11
Gulab Chand Kataria, the Governor of Punjab and Administrator UT Chandigarh, participated virtually in the regional conference on “Drug Trafficking and National Security,” chaired by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Shri Amit Shah. Organized by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, the conference convened key stakeholders to discuss strategies for combating drug trafficking and its implications for national security.
In his address, the Governor highlighted Chandigarh’s determined efforts in tackling the drug menace. He shared that Chandigarh Police had registered 90 cases under the NDPS Act in 2024, leading to the seizure of 70 kg of narcotics and the arrest of 127 drug peddlers. The establishment of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) has further strengthened enforcement, with 16 cases registered and 27 offenders apprehended since its inception. To address challenges such as the theft of seized drugs, a Central Maalkhana has been set up at Police Station 11, ensuring secure storage and timely destruction of confiscated narcotics. Last year, over 26 kg of narcotics and thousands of tablets, bottles, and injections were destroyed, with a new campaign initiated to clear all narcotics seized until December 2024.
The Governor underscored the critical role of special NDPS courts in ensuring swift justice. In 2024, 44 cases were resolved, with convictions achieved in 35 cases. Financial networks supporting the drug trade have also been targeted, resulting in the seizure of properties worth ₹10.5 crore and ₹10 lakh in cash.
Community participation has been a cornerstone of Chandigarh’s strategy. In 2024, over 87,000 individuals were reached through awareness campaigns. The Governor praised innovative initiatives such as Gully Cricket, organized in collaboration with the UT Cricket Association, which engaged youth in constructive activities to deter drug abuse. Awareness efforts have also been focused on educational institutions, slum areas, and other vulnerable communities.
Highlighting initiatives from Punjab Raj Bhavan, the Governor shared details of the “Nasha Mukt Rangla Punjab” campaign, which included a 15 km awareness walk and educational programs involving schools and universities. Looking ahead, he announced plans for an all-religion conference to address the drug menace and a meeting with university Vice Chancellors to develop targeted awareness strategies for educational institutions.
In his concluding remarks, the Governor reaffirmed Chandigarh’s unwavering commitment to achieving a drug-free society. He emphasized the importance of strict enforcement, community-driven initiatives, and collaboration with national efforts. He also commended the leadership of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah in spearheading efforts to combat drug trafficking and secure a safer future for the nation.
During the conference, the Union Home Minister launched the “Drug Disposal Fortnight,” inaugurated the new office complex of the Bhopal Zonal Unit of the NCB, and extended the MANAS-2 helpline to all 36 states and Union Territories.
Rajeev Verma, Chief Secretary, and Shri Surendra Singh Yadav, DGP Chandigarh, along with other officers from the Chandigarh Administration, Police, and CFSL, attended the conference virtually.
