Punjab's De-addiction Centres See 164% Surge in Admissions, Opposition Highlights Drug Crisis

Fresh government data shows a 164% increase in admissions at Punjab's state-run de-addiction centres from 9,577 in 2024 to 25,290 by July 2026. The Bhagwant Mann government attributes this rise to its "Yudh Nasheyan Virudh" campaign, aimed at reducing drug abuse. Admissions for rehabilitation also surged from 2,644 in 2024 to 8,574 by July 2026, a 224% increase. The opposition uses these figures to highlight the ongoing drug crisis ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.