Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal Flags Off Drug-Free Punjab Yatra in Fazilka
Stepping up efforts to eradicate narcotics from border districts, Union Minister of Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal inaugurated the third leg of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s social campaign, the "Drug-Free Punjab Yatra," in Fazilka on Sunday, September 20, 2026. Commencing his keynote address with the traditional greeting "Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akaal," the Union Minister emphasized that the initiative is an urgent grassroots movement aimed at social reform and community rehabilitation rather than electoral politics. Ahead of the official flag-off ceremony, Meghwal paid solemn floral tributes at the historic Asafwala 1971 War Memorial, honoring Indian armed forces personnel who laid down their lives during the Indo-Pak conflict before conducting an on-ground tour of the memorial complex.
Direct Outreach with War Heroes' Kin and Families Impacted by Substance Abuse
Demonstrating direct administrative solidarity at the grassroots level, Meghwal met with the families of fallen soldiers as well as local households directly impacted by the narcotics trade in the border belt. The Union Minister spent considerable time listening to firsthand accounts regarding family struggles, localized rehabilitation bottlenecks, and economic strains caused by addiction. Following this emotional dialogue, his official convoy traveled to Fazilka’s Old Grain Market, where thousands of community workers, local youth, and regional party leaders gathered under tight security cordons to participate in the public mobilization rally.
Rooted in Social Reform: Aligning Awareness Drives with Nation-Building
Addressing the gathering at the Old Grain Market, Meghwal dismissed criticism from political opponents who attempted to label the anti-drug procession as an election-oriented exercise. Drawing parallels with landmark national initiatives launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi—such as "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao," "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam," and sustainable lifestyle movements—the Union Minister maintained that the party holds a consistent track record of championing fundamental socio-cultural causes. Reiterating the administration's commitment to reclaiming Punjab’s youth from substance abuse, Meghwal asserted that collective civic action and community vigilance remain essential pillars to restore health, economic vitality, and long-term security across the state.

