Punjab grants immunity to 10,656 drug addicts under anti-drug campaign: DGP

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Chandigarh, July 9

The Punjab government has granted immunity from prosecution to 10,656 drug addicts under Section 64A of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act as part of its ongoing Yudh Nashean Virudh campaign. The initiative focuses on rehabilitation instead of punishment for individuals found consuming illegal drugs or possessing small quantities for personal use.

Under the programme, eligible beneficiaries are admitted to government-run de-addiction and rehabilitation centres, where they receive medical treatment and recovery support. The approach aims to address drug addiction as a public health issue while maintaining strict enforcement against drug trafficking networks.

According to the official statement, each beneficiary undergoes a medical assessment before receiving an individual treatment plan. The programme includes detoxification, psychiatric care, counselling, behavioural therapy and relapse prevention to support long-term recovery.

Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav said the fight against drugs extends beyond action against traffickers and includes giving people struggling with addiction an opportunity to recover.

“The fight against drugs is not only about arresting peddlers but also about giving every person trapped in addiction a fair chance to recover. We as a police force remain committed to supporting every effort that combines strict enforcement with compassion to ensure the state gets rid of drug addiction as early as possible for the better future of our youth,” he said.

The Punjab government’s anti-drug strategy is built on two key priorities. While law enforcement agencies continue to intensify action against smugglers and drug peddlers, authorities are also identifying individuals affected by addiction and connecting them with rehabilitation services to help them return to their families and society.

Additional Director General of Police, Anti Narcotics Task Force, Nilabh Kishore said recognising the difference between offenders involved in organised crime and individuals battling addiction is essential for effective intervention.

“Identifying the thin line between a criminal and a victim ensures that we can bring people who have strayed into drug addiction into the fold of society. Hence, a person who may turn into a potential criminal tomorrow is made to undergo treatment at the opportune moment so that he reintegrates into society,” he said.

Officials said the campaign will continue to expand rehabilitation efforts alongside enforcement measures, encouraging more people affected by substance abuse to seek treatment and helping reduce the long-term impact of drug addiction across the state.