Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Thursday kick-started a six-day padyatra (foot march) to raise awareness against the growing drug menace in the state. The march, which began from the revered Kartarpur Sahib Corridor in Gurdaspur, will continue till April 8, covering multiple key locations before concluding at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar.
Kataria, addressing the gathering, made an impassioned plea to the people of Punjab, urging them to come together and wipe out drugs from the state. “Punjab, the land of Guru Sahiban, prophets, and warriors, has always stood against injustice and invaders. Now, the time has come for every Punjabi to unite and fight this modern-day invasion — drugs,” he asserted.
This is the first time a Punjab Governor has undertaken such a large-scale campaign against drug abuse, highlighting the seriousness of the issue. The padyatra will pass through various educational institutions, public places, and historical sites to engage directly with the youth and the community.
Kataria emphasized that eradicating drugs is not just the government's responsibility but requires collective action from society. “The Punjabi people have always been warriors — whether it was defending their land from invaders or feeding the nation when it needed food security. Today, the battle is against an enemy that seeks to destroy our youth. If we do not act now, the very fabric of Punjab will be at risk,” he warned.
The Governor also extended an invitation to Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan to join the campaign, urging political leaders, social organizations, and common citizens to lend their support. He made an emotional appeal, saying, “If we don't protect our children today, the future of Punjab will be in darkness.”
Given the significance of the padyatra, security arrangements have been strengthened, particularly at key stops such as religious institutions, educational centers, and public gathering spots.
Pakistan’s Role in Drug Smuggling
Taking a firm stance against cross-border drug smuggling, Kataria accused Pakistan of deliberately attempting to weaken Punjab’s youth. “Our neighboring country knows it cannot defeat us in a direct war, so it is targeting our younger generation through drugs. But let me assure you — Punjab will never allow these nefarious designs to succeed,” he said.
He also highlighted the Punjab Government's ongoing anti-drug campaign, “Yudh Nasheyan Viruddh”, which he said was showing positive results. However, he stressed that the ultimate success of such initiatives depends on public participation. “Every citizen has a role to play in this fight. Whether it is reporting drug dealers, educating the youth, or supporting rehabilitation efforts — each action counts,” he added.
As the padyatra progresses, Kataria hoped it will ignite a people's movement against drugs, motivating individuals and communities to take proactive steps. “This march is not just a symbolic gesture — it is a call for action. Schools, colleges, parents, law enforcement, and community leaders must work together to eliminate this scourge,” he emphasized.
