JALANDHAR: The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) expresses deep concern over the alarming rise in deaths caused by illegal drug consumption in Punjab. NAPA Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal stated that the newly available data paints a distressing picture of a worsening crisis, despite repeated assurances and promises made by the Punjab Government to eliminate the drug menace.
Satnam Singh Chahal strongly criticised the government for failing to fulfil its commitments. He stated that the ruling leadership had repeatedly promised that the drug menace would be eliminated by May 31st of this year, but the ground reality shows no improvement. “Punjab is losing its youth at an alarming rate. What could be more tragic than hundreds of mothers losing their sons every year while the government continues to make empty announcements?” Chahal said.
NAPA also highlighted that the crisis is not confined to narcotic substances alone. Deaths from spurious and illegal liquor remain a parallel threat, with Punjab recording 33 deaths due to toxic liquor in 2023, and recalling the devastating hooch tragedy of 2020, which claimed 121 innocent lives.
Chahal urged the Punjab Government to immediately implement strong, practical, and transparent measures to dismantle drug networks and strengthen rehabilitation programs. He emphasised the need for an independent monitoring system involving civil society, healthcare experts, and anti-narcotic agencies to ensure accountability and real-time data reporting.