Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal raises alarm over rising drug-related deaths, calls for action

Former IAS officer and MLA Balwinder Singh Dhaliwal has expressed deep concern over the reported drug-related death of a young individual in Bathinda, terming the incident a “painful reflection of the ongoing drug crisis gripping Punjab.”

Referring to the Bathinda case, Dhaliwal said that a video shared by an NGO allegedly showed the youth lying dead with an injection mark on his arm, raising serious concerns about the continued spread of drug abuse in the region.

In a strongly worded statement, Dhaliwal said that despite repeated assurances from the government, the drug menace continues to devastate families across the state. “Each death is not just a statistic but a tragic loss of a precious life, a shattered family and a grim reminder of administrative failure,” he stated.

He emphasised that the situation demands urgent, coordinated and transparent action rather than mere political rhetoric. Dhaliwal urged the state government to intensify its crackdown on drug networks, ensure accountability at all levels and significantly strengthen rehabilitation infrastructure for affected youth.

Highlighting the socio-economic dimensions of the crisis, he noted that unemployment, lack of opportunities and inadequate support systems are pushing many young individuals toward substance abuse. He called for a comprehensive strategy that integrates prevention, strict enforcement and effective rehabilitation.

Dhaliwal also appealed to civil society, community leaders and families to come together in addressing the crisis. “This is not just a law-and-order issue—it is a fight to save Punjab’s future,” he added. The Congress leader reiterated his demand for a time-bound action plan and greater transparency in reporting drug-related cases, urging authorities to treat the issue with the seriousness and urgency it deserves.