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Politics
Home Minister Amit Shah to Visit Punjab Amid Centre-State Drug Policy Standoff
✍️ Amar Ujala · Punjab
🗓 18 Oct 2026, 01:01 PM
👁 14
Amit Shah is scheduled to travel to Punjab to discuss the drug problem and law‑and‑order issues, as Union Minister Bittu announced the itinerary on social media.
New Delhi's Home Minister Amit Shah will be in Punjab later today, a move seen as a critical step in the ongoing debate over drug control measures between the central and state governments. The visit comes as Punjab grapples with a surge in substance abuse, prompting the centre to press for stricter enforcement and coordination with state authorities.
Union Minister Bittu Kumar used his official social media handle to confirm Shah's itinerary, adding that senior party functionary Manasa will also accompany the minister. Their presence is expected to underscore the government's resolve to address the narcotics challenge and restore public confidence in law‑and‑order mechanisms.
Analysts note that the trip could signal a shift toward more collaborative policing strategies, though political rivals warn it may intensify the rhetoric between New Delhi and Chandigarh. The outcome of Shah's discussions will likely influence upcoming policy decisions on drug seizures, rehabilitation programs, and inter‑agency cooperation.
The minister is slated to meet Punjab's chief minister, senior police officials, and local administrators before concluding the visit with a public address highlighting the government's commitment to curbing drug trafficking.
Union Minister Bittu Kumar used his official social media handle to confirm Shah's itinerary, adding that senior party functionary Manasa will also accompany the minister. Their presence is expected to underscore the government's resolve to address the narcotics challenge and restore public confidence in law‑and‑order mechanisms.
Analysts note that the trip could signal a shift toward more collaborative policing strategies, though political rivals warn it may intensify the rhetoric between New Delhi and Chandigarh. The outcome of Shah's discussions will likely influence upcoming policy decisions on drug seizures, rehabilitation programs, and inter‑agency cooperation.
The minister is slated to meet Punjab's chief minister, senior police officials, and local administrators before concluding the visit with a public address highlighting the government's commitment to curbing drug trafficking.