Punjab Governor Kataria Voices Concerns Over Drug Crisis, Police Role

Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria is set to complete two years in office on July 31. In an interview with The Indian Express, the 81-year-old former Rajasthan home minister discussed issues including drug trafficking, law and order, farmer protests, and Centre-state relations.

Kataria stated that drug abuse is one of Punjab's biggest challenges, destroying poor families and households. He noted that in border villages, young people are dying within months of addiction to synthetic drugs. He conducted a 17-day foot march to mobilise public opposition to drugs and urged the state government to launch a statewide anti-drug drive, which was initiated last year. He added, 'Drug trafficking cannot flourish without the involvement of the police and the administration.' He acknowledged that police actions against some corrupt officials have been insufficient.

Regarding law and order, the governor said extortion has become a serious concern, with daily reports of threatening calls, firing incidents, and attacks on businesses, discouraging investment. He expressed concern about corruption in politics and administration.

On farmer agitations, Kataria emphasised that dialogue is essential for resolution. He said prolonged protests and road blockades harm the state's economy. He noted a trust deficit between farmer organisations and the government, which only sustained talks can address. He also called for agricultural diversification into horticulture, fisheries, and organic farming.

Kataria described his relationship with the AAP-led Punjab government as largely free of confrontation, attributing this to a preference for dialogue over conflict. He cited discussions on vice-chancellor appointments as an example of working through differences.