CM Mann says Punjab will hire 10,000 more cops, says it has no room for gangsters and smugglers

Mann highlighted the state’s glorious history, which has been home to saints, martyrs, and heroes, while lamenting that criminals had made Punjab their “refuge” under previous administrations. However, Mann said the state government had initiated a determined effort to rid the region of such elements, with a focus on their swift imprisonment.

Mann also said the state has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking, expressing confidence that Punjab will soon be free from illegal drugs with the active participation of its citizens. He said the newly inducted police personnel would play a crucial role in this battle by supporting efforts to dismantle drug networks and confiscating properties linked to smugglers.

Mann mentioned the challenges posed by external forces attempting to disrupt the peace of the state, particularly because of its border status. He praised police’s efforts in foiling such attempts and stressed the need for modernising the force with advanced tools, techniques and training.

Mann called on the newly recruited officers to fulfil their duties with dedication and commitment to ensure justice and the prosperity of the people of Punjab. He encouraged them to play an active role in addressing the issues of the public, particularly in combating the drug menace, which he emphasised was a national concern. He reiterated the importance of maintaining Punjab’s legacy of peace and harmony despite attempts by divisive forces to create communal strife.

Highlighting the state government’s innovative initiatives, Mann discussed the creation of the Sadak Surakhya Force—a pioneering effort to enhance road safety across Punjab. The force, which includes 1,597 newly recruited personnel, has been deployed along highways to reduce accidents, with significant success already reported—a 48.10 per cent reduction in casualties due to accidents.

Mann emphasized the importance of state-of-the-art training facilities at Jahan Khela, which are enabling the police force to stay updated with modern crime-fighting methods. Other states have also been sending their forces to the campus for training, reflecting its growing reputation, he said.

Also, Mann presented cheques worth Rs 1 crore each to the families of five police personnel—assistant sub-inspectors Balwinder Singh, Naseeb Chand and Anil Kumar; head constable Manjinder Singh; and constable Inderjit Singh—who lost their lives in the line of duty.