Punjab: A fresh controversy has erupted over the drug menace in Punjab after an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) was caught under the influence of drugs in Budhlada, Mansa. The incident occurred while the state police were conducting their anti-drug campaign, 'Yudh Nashia Virudh,' alongside crackdown operations against drug peddlers and illegal pharmacy sales following the murder of anti-drug activist Parwinder Singh Jhota.
ASI Caught In Unstable Condition
The officer, identified as ASI Sehajpreet Singh, was temporarily deployed at ITI Chowk in Budhlada, a sub-divisional town 33 kilometres from the district headquarters, to manage law and order during the ongoing protests.
On Friday, local residents found the officer in an unstable state near ITI Chowk. Upon confronting him, they alleged that he was under the influence of drugs, prompting senior police officials to reach the spot and take him into custody.
Tests Positive For Drugs, Booked Under NDPS Act
Following the incident, the cop underwent a medical assessment and tested positive for drugs. A case has been registered against him under Section 27 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, at the Budhlada City Police Station.
Addressing the incident, Mansa Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Vaibhav Chaudhary stated that ASI Sehajpreet Singh was posted in Mohali and was on temporary duty in Mansa. The SSP confirmed the positive dope test and the registration of the FIR, while adding that no drug was recovered from his possession, The Times of India reported.
Locals Stage Protest
The incident sparked widespread outrage, with local residents staging a protest at the scene. Protesters accused Budhlada Market Committee Chairman Satish Singla of supporting the accused ASI and demanded strict action.
During the protest, minor damage was caused to Singla's shop. Singla, however, denied any connection with the officer and called for strict punishment against the cop.
(With Inputs From Jagran.com)