By Amrit Pal Sidhu
Chandigarh, September 17, 2026
As the sun rises over the bustling city of Chandigarh, a new dawn emerges in the fight against drug abuse. The Chandigarh Police have taken significant strides in intensifying their Anti-Drug Campaign, aiming to create a safer, drug-free environment for its residents. This initiative is not just a law enforcement exercise but a community-driven mission that seeks to root out drug-related activities and their detrimental impact on society.
Comprehensive Checks and Strategic Operations
In an effort to clamp down on drug activities, the police have ramped up their operations, focusing on individuals with a history of drug-related offenses. The campaign involves meticulous monitoring of these individuals' current activities and associations, ensuring that any resurgence of illegal activities is swiftly curtailed.
Simultaneously, law enforcement agencies are targeting known drug hotspots and vulnerable areas within the city. These include abandoned buildings, jungle areas, and certain colonies which have been identified through field intelligence and local community inputs. The aim is clear: to disrupt the networks of drug trafficking, sale, and possession.
Recent Successes in the Anti-Drug Drive
The results of these intensified efforts speak volumes. On September 16, a single day of operations led to the registration of 14 First Information Reports (FIRs) and the arrest of 14 individuals involved in drug and arms-related cases. The police successfully confiscated 68.290 grams of heroin and two Kamanidar knives from these operations. Additionally, 14 more individuals were detained for further investigation.
Since the launch of this special drive on September 11, the statistics are even more impressive. A total of 65 FIRs have been filed, with 66 arrests made. The police have seized a substantial amount of drugs, including 476.409 grams of heroin, 4 grams of Ice Drug, 1.191 kg of Ganja, along with 15 injections, 10 Kamanidar knives, and a hookah. In total, 193 individuals have been detained as part of this crackdown.
Community-Oriented Policing: Engaging with Residents
A key component of this campaign is its community-oriented approach. Dr. Sagarpreet Hooda, DGP, U.T., Chandigarh, alongside senior police officials, has been actively engaging with residents through meetings with Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) and Market Welfare Associations (MWAs) in areas like Manimajra, Sarangpur, Maloya, and Bapu Dham Colony.
These interactions are crucial for understanding the concerns and grievances of the community. The issues raised are taken seriously, with directives issued for prompt examination and redressal by the concerned authorities.
Furthermore, Ms. Kanwardeep Kaur, SSP/UT, has taken a hands-on approach by personally leading special search operations in several locations. Her visits to suspected drug peddlers' residences underline the commitment to eradicating drug menace at its roots.
Zero-Tolerance Approach: A Firm Stance Against Drug Trafficking
The campaign embodies a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of drug trafficking or related activities. The focus is not only on enforcement but also on preventive measures that target suppliers, peddlers, repeat offenders, and anyone involved in the drug network.
Chandigarh Police remains resolute in its mission to transform the vision of a Drug-Free Chandigarh into reality. This is achieved through continuous enforcement efforts, intelligence-led operations, community engagement, and addressing public grievances promptly.
Call to Action: Community Vigilance and Cooperation
The success of this campaign hinges not only on police efforts but also on active public participation. Citizens are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious drug-related activities within their neighborhoods. Public cooperation is vital in sustaining this momentum towards a safer and healthier Chandigarh.