Punjab’s drug crisis has evolved beyond a law-and-order challenge into a critical test of governance, the integrity of public institutions, and the state’s resolve to safeguard its younger generation. Behind every drug seizure and arrest lies a sobering question: how many young lives have been saved, how many remain at risk, and how many families continue to live in constant fear of losing their loved ones to the menace of drugs?
This incident involving killing of activist Parvinder Singh alias Jhota needs a thorough probe, and convincing protection for those who assist the authorities in exposing the illegal trade. The incident should be the final one, leading to end of the menace. Enforcement must target the entire financial and logistical network of trafficking. Investigators should pursue financiers, suppliers, interstate networks, illicit pharmaceutical diversion and the assets acquired through drug trade. Border agencies, central investigative bodies and Punjab Police must share intelligence and match up investigations. Successful prosecutions, not just arrests, are a key performance indicator.
No official statistics will be able to show the tragedy of the woman, who needs it the most. Lighting the pyres of all family members one after the other speaks volumes of the tragedy Punjab is passing through. The state government may claim of large number of arrests and huge seizures but this cannot be taken as conclusive proof that the crisis is receding. The arrests speak about the action and seizures about quantity intercepted. Neither, on its own, tells us whether drugs have become harder to procure, addiction is declining or whether fewer families are losing their children.
It is especially hard to imagine the tragedy of the family of Shinder Kaur from Ludhiana, who has already lost all six of her sons due to the drug menace.
Most importantly, citizens who expose the drug trade must get protection. A workable mechanism be devised allowing confidential reporting, and ensure credible complaints receive timely investigation. Punjab’s people do not need yet another declaration that the state will become drug-free. They need evidence of corrective steps.
