The Congress party has renewed its focus on Punjab’s drug problem as it prepares for the 2027 Assembly elections. Rahul Gandhi raised the issue prominently during the party’s Insaaf Rally in Sangrur on November 4, 2026.
During his address, Gandhi criticised the Aam Aadmi Party government and questioned whether it had fulfilled its commitment to eliminate drugs from the state.
The rally marked an important beginning to the Congress party’s election mobilisation in Punjab.
Rahul Gandhi Seeks Accountability From AAP Government
Gandhi referred to the promises made by AAP during the 2022 Assembly election campaign, when the party had committed itself to tackling the drug menace.
He questioned the progress achieved under the current administration and asked which parts of Punjab had become free from drugs.
He also highlighted concerns about synthetic substances and the continued availability of narcotics.
The Congress leader’s remarks indicate that the party intends to make the drug crisis a central part of its political campaign against the ruling AAP.
Previous Congress Government’s Promise Also Under Discussion
The issue has a long political history in Punjab.
In December 2015, former Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh promised to eliminate drugs within four weeks if the Congress formed the government.
The Congress won the 2017 Assembly elections and Amarinder Singh became Chief Minister. However, the drug problem continued during the party’s five-year period in office.
This background makes the issue particularly important for the Congress, which will need to address questions about its own record while criticising the current government.
BJP Announces Its Own Target for Punjab
The BJP has also made the fight against drugs an important political issue.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced a target of making Punjab drug-free by December 31, 2029.
Rahul Gandhi questioned this proposed deadline and raised concerns about the Centre’s efforts to prevent drug trafficking.
With all three major political parties discussing the problem, their proposed strategies and ability to deliver results could become important subjects during the election campaign.
Tackling Addiction Requires More Than Police Action
Punjab’s drug crisis involves several connected challenges, including cross-border smuggling, pharmaceutical supply networks, unemployment and limited access to rehabilitation support.
The problem cannot be addressed through arrests and seizures alone. Prevention programmes, treatment facilities, rehabilitation services and public awareness are also necessary.
The concerns highlighted in the report underline the need for a broader approach involving different institutions and communities.
Sangrur Rally Signals Congress Election Preparations
The Insaaf Rally has given the Congress an opportunity to highlight public concerns while beginning its preparations for the next Assembly elections.
The party is seeking to connect issues such as drug addiction, public safety and law and order with its political message.
However, its previous record in government will also remain part of the discussion.
As Punjab moves closer to the 2027 elections, political parties will face growing pressure to explain how their promises can translate into measurable improvements.