Punjab's Drug Crisis Turns Into Election Battleground

The growing concern over illicit drug use in Punjab has moved from law‑enforcement circles to the centre of political campaigns as the state prepares for its next assembly elections.
Major parties are using the drug problem to differentiate themselves, accusing the incumbent government of laxity while promising tougher enforcement, rehabilitation and supply‑chain disruption if elected.
Analysts note that the issue resonates with voters, especially in rural districts where drug addiction has impacted families, and that the politicisation may pressure authorities to accelerate anti‑drug measures.
However, critics warn that turning the drug fight into a campaign slogan could oversimplify a complex social problem and lead to populist promises lacking concrete implementation plans.