Punjab: AAP targets past govts, accuses Oppn of politicising drug deaths

The ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab faced intense criticism from the Opposition regarding ongoing drug deaths and the drug menace in the state. During a press conference, an AAP cabinet minister defended the current administration by blaming successive past governments led by the Shiromani Akali Dal-BJP and the Congress for allowing the drug problem and gangsterism to take root.

According to the AAP, the current state government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has consistently targeted drug trafficking and organized crime through special teams, extensive raids, and enhanced enforcement. Officials highlighted the establishment of anti-drone systems at the border, the launch of a campaign against drugs, and a significant number of arrests and apprehensions of proclaimed offenders since taking power.

The ruling party also cited comparative figures to claim that drug use had declined in Punjab while increasing in other states governed by rival parties. Additionally, AAP representatives addressed water resource management issues, alleging that past administrations neglected the canal irrigation network and caused severe groundwater depletion before the current government restored canal water utilization.

Not yet reported: The articles do not report any specific criminal case details, court proceedings, or independent verification of the statistics provided by the political parties.