Chandigarh, Punjab, India – March 26: Ahead of the presentation of Punjab's Budget for 2025-26, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema met Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann at his residence on Wednesday. Prior to the meeting, Cheema signed the Budget documents. This marks the fourth budget of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government since coming to power in 2022. The budget is expected to focus on developmental initiatives, with key priorities including education, healthcare, and combating drug addiction. Reports suggest that AAP will take a firm stance against drug abuse, and for the first time, a Drug Census may be included, as hinted by AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal during a recent rally.

An official statement revealed that since the campaign's inception, 3,957 drug smugglers have been arrested, and 2,248 FIRs have been registered. Law enforcement has seized large quantities of contraband, including 137.7 kg of heroin. In a decisive move, CM Mann and DGP Yadav have instructed all Police Commissioners (CPs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) to compile a detailed list of key drug suppliers in their districts within a week. The directive, issued through a strongly worded letter, underscores the government’s commitment to systematically dismantling drug supply networks in the state.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.