Punjab's Ongoing Battle Against Drug Addiction: A Deep-Seated Crisis

Punjab's Long-Standing Struggle with Drug Abuse

For nearly thirty years, Punjab has been engaged in a relentless fight against drug addiction. Over this period, various governments, including those from the Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal, and currently the Aam Aadmi Party, have claimed to take stringent actions against drugs. Each administration has launched special campaigns, formed task forces, established de-addiction centers, and promised to crack down on traffickers. Yet, the pressing question remains: why is Punjab still mired in the drug crisis?

A Population in Crisis: Millions Affected by Substance Abuse

The severity of drug addiction in Punjab is highlighted in a report by the Parliamentary Committee on Social Justice and Empowerment. Based on surveys, it reveals that out of Punjab's approximately 30 million residents, around 6.6 million individuals are engaged in some form of substance abuse. This includes about 2.136 million opioid users, with nearly 697,000 children also affected by this issue.

Another alarming statistic from the report indicates that the success rate of recovery in government de-addiction centers is merely around 1.5%. This suggests that most patients relapse after treatment, underscoring that Punjab's drug crisis is not just a law-and-order issue but a significant health, social, and economic challenge.

Supreme Court's Concerns Over Rising Drug Abuse

The Supreme Court has also expressed its worries regarding the escalating drug problem in Punjab. During hearings related to NDPS cases, the court remarked that the drug issue in Punjab has reached a "worrisome level," necessitating effective measures to address it. This statement reflects the court's view of the problem as not merely a criminal issue but a social and administrative challenge.

Increased Actions, Yet Drug Use Persists

In recent years, the Punjab police have intensified their campaigns against drug abuse. According to official data, between July 5, 2022, and July 7, 2023, the police registered 12,218 FIRs under the NDPS Act. Comparisons of government statistics from 2017-2021 and 2022 to April 2026 show an increase in actions and seizures against drug trafficking. However, a critical question arises.

If large quantities of drugs are continuously being seized, thousands of cases are being registered, and arrests are ongoing, how is such a significant amount of drugs still reaching the state? The seized shipments also indicate that the smuggling network remains active. Merely having seizure statistics does not prove that the supply of drugs has been completely halted.

Are Traffickers Adapting Faster Than Policies?

The methods of drug trafficking in Punjab have evolved over time. Initially, the primary concern was heroin smuggled across borders. However, in recent years, police have also seized significant quantities of synthetic drugs like crystal methamphetamine. Security agencies have consistently reported attempts to smuggle drugs via drones across international borders.

Experts believe that simply seizing drugs will not resolve the issue. It is essential to target the traffickers' financial networks, confiscate their assets, enhance intelligence systems, and ensure strong coordination among various agencies.

Judicial Concerns Over Investigative Shortcomings

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has raised questions about deficiencies in the investigative processes in several cases. Courts frequently discuss issues such as:

Proper procedures for seizures,

Sealing and sampling of confiscated drugs,

Chain of custody for evidence,

Forensic examinations,

Delays in investigations and trials.

Legal experts argue that mere arrests are insufficient. If there are technical flaws in the investigative process, the case may weaken in court, benefiting traffickers. In one case, the Punjab and Haryana High Court stated that Punjab is "suffering under the grip of drugs," posing a serious threat to the state's social fabric. In another instance, the court noted that organized drug trafficking is continuously harming the youth and society.

Weak Rehabilitation Systems Present Major Challenges

The parliamentary committee's report also highlights that one of Punjab's significant challenges is rehabilitation. With a recovery rate of only 1.5% in government de-addiction centers, halting the supply of drugs alone will not resolve the issue. Experts assert that addiction is a severe health problem requiring medication, counseling, mental health support, family involvement, and long-term monitoring. Without continuous support post-treatment, the likelihood of patients relapsing remains high.

Deep Impact on Economy and Society

The repercussions of drug abuse extend beyond crime. Addiction affects employment, education, health, and the economic stability of families. Issues such as treatment costs, unemployment, and debt impact thousands of households. Additionally, there is increased pressure on health services, law enforcement, and social welfare programs. Economists believe that a long-standing drug problem can undermine the productivity and economic development of any state.

Political Changes, Yet Challenges Persist

Various political parties have governed Punjab, each claiming to work towards a drug-free state. Some emphasized strict laws, others launched special campaigns, and some announced new strategies. It would be inaccurate to say that no progress has been made. A significant amount of drugs has been seized, thousands have been arrested, and actions have been taken against several trafficking networks. However, reports from Parliament, the ongoing registration of NDPS cases, and comments from the courts indicate that the drug problem has not yet been permanently controlled.

The Crucial Question: Who is Accountable?

Today, Punjab's drug crisis is no longer just a law-and-order issue. It has become a test of governance, administration, and the capabilities of government institutions. Millions remain trapped in addiction. The police are continuously taking action, and the courts are repeatedly expressing concern. However, there is still a long way to go in terms of rehabilitation and prevention.

Experts believe that the solution to this problem will not come from arrests alone. It requires robust investigations, effective prosecutions, modern forensic systems, actions that cripple the financial networks of drug traffickers, border security, improved rehabilitation systems, and long-term public health policies.