SANGRUR-Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday announced that Punjab will now deliver police assistance within just six minutes, on par with developed regions such as the US and Europe, as he flagged off 508 Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs) in Sangrur to significantly strengthen on-ground policing across the state. The vehicles, equipped with advanced technology and deployed across all 28 police districts under Dial-112, are set to ensure immediate response to distress calls, marking a major leap in rapid, technology-driven law enforcement.
Backed by ₹327.70 crore investment in police vehicles over four years, the Chief Minister highlighted that modernisation of the force has not only strengthened law and order but also tightened the grip on drug traffickers, while improved security continues to boost investor confidence, reflected in major investments like Tata Steel’s second-largest plant in Punjab.
Addressing a gathering in Sagrur, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann gave a strong call to the people, stating, “Social boycott of those involved in the heinous crime of drug trade is necessary as a final blow to eradicate this menace completely from Punjab.” He asserted that those who have ruined generations deserve no leniency, adding, “Such elements must be taught a lesson, and social boycott will act as a catalyst in freeing Punjab from drugs.”
Highlighting the government’s firm action, he said, “The Punjab Government has already tightened the noose against drug trade, and the conviction rate in such cases has reached 87%, which is far higher than any other state.” He added, “Yudh Nashean Virudh has been the biggest-ever crackdown on the drug network in Punjab, breaking the backbone of this illegal trade by snapping supply chains and putting big fish behind bars.”
Comparing governance priorities, he said, “While previous governments allocated minimal funds for police welfare, the current government has invested ₹327.69 crore in just four years, purchasing 2, 904 vehicles since 2022.” He added, “Today, every police station in Punjab has at least one new vehicle.”
Reflecting on Punjab’s security history, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Punjab has witnessed difficult phases of terrorism, but due to the sacrifices of police personnel, peace was restored, and today the state is known for peace.” He added that despite ongoing challenges as a border state, the police continue to perform their duties with full commitment.
Taking aim at opposition leadership, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, “Some leaders are daydreaming of returning to power with unrealistic promises, but people are fully aware of their track record.” He further remarked, “Even late Parkash Singh Badal had never entrusted full leadership responsibilities to Sukhbir Singh Badal, understanding the consequences.”
Cabinet Ministers Harpal Singh Cheema and Barinder Goyal, along with Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav and other dignitaries, were also present on the occasion.