Punjab to set up robust rehab system as more addicts come forward

The cabinet sub-committee set up by the Punjab government to “wage a war against drugs” decided on Monday (June 9, 2025) to establish a robust system for the treatment of drug addicts  | Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto

The cabinet sub-committee set up by the Punjab government to “wage a war against drugs” decided on Monday (June 9, 2025) to establish a robust system for the treatment of drug addicts amid an increase in the number of drug addicts seeking treatment at government de-addiction centers and hospitals, Finance Minister Harpal Cheema has said.

He said this crucial step comes as the ongoing campaign against the drug menace has successfully disrupted drug supply lines, leading to a notable increase in individuals seeking treatment.

“With an increasing number of drug addicts seeking treatment at government de-addiction centres and hospitals, the sub-committee has moved swiftly to expand capacity and enhance medical support. Decisions include the immediate recruitment of 200 psychologists on a temporary basis for six months, with the Health Department tasked to secure permanent recruitment in the interim,” he said, addressing a press conference here.

16,000 arrests

The sub-committee has also directed the Health Department to submit a comprehensive proposal within a week for recruitment of all necessary health staff, he added. The Finance Minister said as part of the ‘war against drugs’ campaign from March 1, 2025, till June 8, as many as 9,580 cases were registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and 16,348 persons have been arrested. “Strict action has been taken against drug traffickers, leading to the demolition of properties belonging to 118 individuals involved in the drug trade. During this period, significant quantities of illicit substances were recovered, including 622 kg of heroin, 14,976 kg of poppy husk, 252 kg of opium, 264 kg of ganja, and 26,49,847 narcotic pills,” he said.

On opposition parties’ misgivings about the campaign, Mr. Cheema said, “Drugs took root in Punjab during the Akali-BJP and Congress governments, making the youth vulnerable. I urge leaders of opposition parties to support this crucial campaign, rather than engaging in narrow politics that disregards public welfare and, conversely, promotes drug-related issues.”

Published - June 09, 2025 10:57 pm IST