Chandigarh, 14 February 2026: Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Friday said that the state government’s ongoing ‘War on Drugs’ campaign has resulted in another arrest. According to the Minister, a resident of Kalanaur in Gurdaspur district was allegedly apprehended while consuming narcotics.
Officials have registered a case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (NDPS Act), and the matter is currently under investigation. The NDPS Act is India’s primary legislation regulating offences related to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
Minister’s Statement
Addressing the media, Cheema said the arrest reflects the government’s continued enforcement efforts against drug abuse and trafficking. He added that the accused individual’s alleged political associations have been discussed in public discourse, though no official confirmation has been issued by any political party in that regard.
The Minister stated that Punjab has faced longstanding challenges related to narcotics, and the present administration has adopted a strict enforcement approach. He said that law enforcement agencies are proceeding according to legal provisions and due process.
Anti-Drug Enforcement Framework
Drug law enforcement in India is coordinated between state police forces and central agencies. The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), which operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is responsible for coordinating actions related to drug law enforcement across the country.
Authorities indicated that the case will proceed through the judicial system in accordance with the NDPS Act. Individuals booked under the Act are entitled to legal safeguards and due process under Indian law.
Focus on Rehabilitation and Treatment
Cheema also highlighted that alongside enforcement, the Punjab Government is focusing on rehabilitation and treatment initiatives for individuals affected by substance abuse. He said that medical and counseling facilities are being strengthened to assist those seeking recovery.
Officials confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and further developments are expected as the case progresses through the legal process.
