Punjab’s Drug Crisis Spiralling: Pargat Singh Demands Accountability
Congress MLA Pargat Singh demands accountability from the AAP government over rising drug trafficking and medical drug abuse in Punjab.
The escalating drug menace in Punjab has sparked a political firestorm, with Congress MLA Pargat Singh launching a scathing attack on the state government. Singh has raised serious alarms over the rising tide of drug trafficking, violent clashes, and the lethal spread of medical drug abuse, questioning why the administration seems to be standing by as a mere spectator.
A State Under Siege: Violence and Tragedy
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Pargat Singh highlighted a series of disturbing incidents that he claims are symptomatic of a larger, systemic failure across the state. He asserted that the tragedy witnessed in Mansa is not an isolated case but a pattern repeating throughout Punjab.
Singh pointed to specific instances of violence and loss to illustrate the gravity of the situation:
- Violence in Sri Hargobindpur Sahib: Three young men were reportedly attacked with weapons by drug traffickers, showcasing the boldness of criminal elements.
- Tragedy in Ludhiana: A 30-year-old man named Sahil reportedly lost his life after consuming medical drugs, highlighting the deadly nature of pharmaceutical abuse.
Allegations of Political Patronage
The Congress leader did not mince words regarding the cause of this emboldened criminality. He alleged that drug traffickers are operating with impunity due to perceived patronage from both political circles and the police force.
Singh questioned the efficacy of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) administration, noting that after four and a half years of their rule, the abuse of medical drugs continues to proliferate. He lamented that while newspapers are filled with reports of suffering families and devastated communities, the government has failed to take decisive action.
The Arms Licence Controversy
Adding another layer to his critique, Pargat Singh raised a specific query regarding the issuance of an arms licence to an individual named Ashwani Kumar. Singh questioned the basis of this decision, citing a history of legal violations.
He pointed out that despite five police cases and the violation of orders issued by the District Magistrate, an arms licence was still granted. Singh contrasted this with the previous Congress government's actions, noting that a specific capsule associated with drug abuse had been banned as early as December 2021.
Call for High Court Supervision
Demanding absolute transparency, Pargat Singh has called for an independent investigation into these matters. Given the gravity of the allegations and the perceived lack of government will, he asserted that the entire probe should be conducted under the direct supervision of the High Court.
Singh emphasised that the authorities must act urgently to dismantle trafficking networks and ensure that those responsible for wrongdoing are held accountable. He stressed that the protection of Punjab's youth and the preservation of its families must become the government's primary priority to stop the devastating consequences of substance abuse.