BJP Kicks Off 'Drug-Free Punjab' Drive Amidst Dalit Death & Poll Focus
BJP Kicks Off 'Drug-Free Punjab' Drive Amidst Dalit Death & Poll Focus
The BJP launches its 'Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatras' ahead of the 2027 Assembly polls, pledging to eradicate drug menace. This campaign unfolds amidst a row over a Dalit villager's death.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has officially launched its 'Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatras,' a significant campaign aimed at creating a 'drug-free Punjab' in the run-up to the 2027 Assembly elections. The initiative, announced by State BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon, will commence on September 18, 2026, and cover all 117 Assembly constituencies.
This high-profile drive comes at a critical time, following a controversy surrounding the tragic death of a Dalit villager. Reports suggest the villager was under immense pressure to apologize after allegedly questioning Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema about the availability of 'chitta' (synthetic drugs) in the State.
This incident has added another layer of urgency and political sensitivity to the BJP's anti-drug campaign.
Flanked by national vice-president Manpreet Badal and former State chief Sunil Jakhar during a press conference in Chandigarh, Dhillon emphasized that these yatras are more than just awareness campaigns. He stated that the drug crisis is tearing families apart, pushing Punjab's youth, traditionally known for their contributions to the armed forces and sports, towards violence and gang-related activities.
He also highlighted the severe financial burden on families forced into debt to fund treatment for addiction.
The BJP leaders identified three major challenges currently plaguing Punjab: the escalating drug menace, a deteriorating law and order situation, and widespread corruption. The 'Nasha Mukt Punjab Yatras' are designed to transform the fight against drugs into a widespread mass movement, aiming to protect 'Punjabiyat'—the State's unique culture, values, and identity.
The first yatra is scheduled to be flagged off by BJP president Nitin Nabin on September 18 from Pathankot district.
Subsequent marches will follow in Fatehgarh Sahib on September 19, Fazilka on September 20, and Talwandi Sabo on September 21.
This strategic timing and broad coverage underscore the BJP's ambition to gain significant political ground in the upcoming elections, echoing Union Home Minister Amit Shah's previous promise to free the State from the scourge of drugs if given a chance to form the next government.
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