CHANDIGARH: Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria has set a firm September 30 deadline for the Chandigarh Police and the UT Administration to completely eliminate the illicit drug trade from the Union Territory.
Speaking as the chief guest at the first anniversary function of the Senior Journalists Forum held at the Law Auditorium in Sector 37, Kataria issued a stern warning. He categorically stated that Station House Officers (SHOs) and field staff will face direct administrative action if illegal drugs continue to be sold within their respective jurisdictions after the cut-off date.
Cracking Down on the Drug Nexus
Kataria pledged to aggressively break any official-criminal nexus, emphasizing that illegal enterprises cannot operate without police and civil connivance. To ensure robust ground verification, the UT Administration will deploy secret teams and independent informers to target drug networks directly.
Highlighting the need for collective social responsibility, the Governor cited Punjab’s historical sacrifices and community unity during recent floods as an inspiration to save the youth from substance abuse. He underscored that affected youth must be rehabilitated through sports, skill-building, and private-sector job placements.
Calling for active public participation, he reminded citizens of his weekly Janta Darbars—held every Wednesday—where they can directly address such grievances with him.
The Enduring Role of Media
Addressing the gathering, Kataria described journalism as essential for a prosperous society. He urged media professionals to remain unbiased, act with positive intent, and fearlessly highlight administrative and political lapses.
Ramesh Vinayak, Executive Editor of Hindustan Times, also addressed the forum. He noted that despite changing trends and the growing political reliance on social media, print media retains an unmatched trust and credibility that cannot be eroded. He highlighted the increasing political pressure on media houses, praising journalists for continuing to fulfill their duties transparently and impartially. Remarks were also shared by senior journalists Jagtar Singh and Harish Manav, who urged the fraternity to stay united.
Addressing Forum Demands and Felicitations
Responding to the forum’s demands, Kataria noted that while national health schemes exist, he is open to reviewing special emergency medical cases submitted by journalists on an individual basis. Regarding the request for a dedicated Bhavan, he clarified that Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines restrict direct land allocations in the UT; however, he encouraged the forum to submit proposals to repurpose an existing unutilized building.
The event was attended by key forum office bearers, including Patron Sukhdev Singh, President Jagtar Singh Sidhu, Chairman A.S. Prashar, General Secretary Kewal Bharti, Treasurer Surinder Singh Garoa, Vice President P.J.S. Trehan, and senior journalist Nitin Jain. The celebration concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony and a vibrant Malwai Giddha and Bhangra performance by senior citizens led by Pritam Rupal.
During the event, several prominent leaders across healthcare and academia were felicitated by the Governor for their outstanding contributions to society:
Medical & Healthcare Leaders:
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Prof. (Dr.) Ravneet Kaur – Director Principal, GMCH Chandigarh
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Prof. (Dr.) Yash Paul Sharma – Department of Cardiology, PGIMER
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Dr. Ravi Gupta – Chairman & HOD Orthopaedics, Paras Hospital Panchkula
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Prof. (Dr.) Harshinder Kaur – Professor of Paediatric Surgery, Rajindra Hospital Patiala (Writer & Social Worker)
University Leaders:
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Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar – Vice Chancellor, Rayat Bahra University
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Dr. Zora Singh – Chancellor, Desh Bhagat University
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Prof. (Dr.) Sandeep Singh – President, Desh Bhagat University AMERICAS
