SSP holds Sampark prog with locals over drug abuse, law enforcement challenges
An interactive Sampark meeting was conducted under the leadership of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Kapurthala, Gaurav Toora, with residents of Phagwara subdivision at the Lovely Professional University (LPU), Phagwara, on Tuesday. The session aimed to engage the community in discussions surrounding safety, drug abuse and local law enforcement challenges.
During the meeting, several significant points were raised that reflected community concerns and suggestions for collective action against drug-related issues, including formation of village-level anti-drug committees as such grassroots initiatives could help combat the drug menace effectively. Besides, promotion of sports clubs and related activities, particularly volleyball, will act as a mean to engage youth and divert attention away from drugs. Participants expressed their concern about the workload of the police force, suggesting the need for additional resources.
The SSP announced plans for an anti-encroachment drive to address chronic traffic jams. Industrialist Bhavdeep Sardana, Davinder Kultham and Jasjit Singh Virk raised the issue of shortage of police personnel in the subdivision and said there was need for more police officers to ensure adequate public safety. They expressed the need to curb the menace of eve teasing incidents outside educational institutions and demanded the introduction of female PCR vans to redress the burning issue. A proposal to move the bus stand outside the city limits was discussed to alleviate congestion.
Residents expressed desire for senior officers to dedicate time for community interactions and support. Some residents demanded preventive actions against thefts and snatchings and to take related measures, besides, keeping a watch on individuals out on bail.
Toora announced zero tolerance for drug peddlers and said a strong stance had been taken against drug peddlers, with no relaxations for offenders. He stressed the need for more de-addiction programmes for drug addicts, which was backed by those present.
Phagwara SP Rupinder Bhatti spoke about provisions of Section 64-A of the NDPS Act and said information had been shared regarding the legal provisions that provided for the non-prosecution of drug addicts, highlighting the importance of treatment over punishment.
The necessity of installing CCTV cameras, especially at scrap shops to enhance surveillance and prevent illicit activities and strict punishment for traffic violators keeping in mind road safety was also discussed in the programme, which was also attended by AAP leader Joginder Singh Maan and Harnoor Singh.
Toora assured the people that their suggestions would be taken seriously and incorporated into the department’s strategies. He stressed the importance of community involvement in fostering a safer environment and combating drug abuse. The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of people.
