Daily News
Punjab De-Addiction Scam: ED Freezes ₹21 Crore Linked to Amit
Enforcement Directorate Takes Action in Punjab’s De-addiction Sector
In a significant development, the Jalandhar Zonal Unit of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has frozen multiple bank accounts associated with Dr.

Enforcement Directorate Takes Action in Punjab’s De-addiction Sector
In a significant development related to the Punjab de-addiction scam, the Jalandhar Zonal Unit of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has frozen multiple bank accounts associated with Dr. Amit Bansal, a Chandigarh-based physician, and his family members. This action, which is part of a broader investigation into drug diversion and money laundering, involves a whopping Rs 21 crore. The case is connected to various private de-addiction centres previously operated by Dr. Bansal, which are now defunct.
According to an ED official, this investigation entails serious allegations of the misuse of prescription drugs and illegal financial transactions linked to 22 private de-addiction centres across Punjab. Dr. Bansal’s operations have drawn scrutiny over claims suggesting that drugs intended solely for registered addicts were illegally diverted for profit, bringing grave concerns over public health and safety.
Background and Initial Investigations
The ED’s involvement in this case follows a prior investigation led by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau. Dr. Bansal was initially arrested about seven months ago by the Bureau for his alleged role in misusing Adnoc-N, a regulated drug combination of Buprenorphine and Naloxone prescribed for the treatment of opioid addiction. Investigators suspect that Dr. Bansal and his associates sold this medication to non-registered drug users, an act that threatens the integrity of healthcare protocols and public safety.
Although Dr. Bansal is currently out on bail, his actions have caused widespread repercussions. Authorities have shut down all 22 centres in Punjab and one in Chandigarh to ensure accountability, dealing a major blow to the region’s already fragile drug rehabilitation system. ED officials also confirmed that they sealed the Chandigarh centre during their raids on July 18.
The July 18 Raids: An Overview
As part of the ongoing probe into the Punjab de-addiction scam, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out coordinated raids on July 18, targeting locations in Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Barnala, and even as far as Mumbai. These operations were comprehensive, aimed at garnering evidence of the alleged criminal activities. The ED’s official statement highlighted the search for digital records and financial evidence linked to the illegal sale of controlled substances.
During these raids, the ED seized thousands of restricted tablets alongside over Rs 90,000 in cash from a Ludhiana hospital and other facilities linked to Dr. Bansal. Notably, some incriminating documents and electronic devices pertinent to the case are currently undergoing forensic examination, which may yield further insights into the scale of operations and the extent of the alleged misconduct.
Extent of Allegations and Missing Medications
The gravity of the allegations against Dr. Bansal is magnified by the findings during inspections at various centres. For instance, a hospital in Nakodar (Jalandhar) reported as many as 1.44 lakh tablets missing from its inventory. The ED suspects that Dr. Bansal attempted to obfuscate these discrepancies with the assistance of certain departmental staff and officials. This cover-up seems to reflect a systematic method of misappropriation that has serious implications for public health, particularly in tackling the ongoing opioid crisis in Punjab.
Furthermore, the ED has registered four First Information Reports (FIRs) against Dr. Bansal’s centres across various districts, including notable jurisdictions like Jalandhar, Ludhiana, and Patiala. The complicity of local authorities surfaces with the involvement of Ludhiana-based Drug Inspector Ruppreet Kaur, who has been named as a co-accused in this unfolding drama of alleged corruption.
Public Health Implications
Punjab has been grappling with a drug crisis for years, exacerbated by the easy availability of controlled substances. The operations of private de-addiction centres, often set up to help addicts recover, have come under scrutiny due to such malpractice. The misuse of medications like Adnoc-N, designed to benefit those seeking recovery from substance abuse, not only undermines public trust in medical institutions but also endangers lives.
The ED’s investigations come at a crucial time when the state is trying to rehabilitate its denigrated drug recovery framework. Authorities have voiced concerns that incidents of diversion and illicit sales have contributed significantly to the opioid epidemic affecting numerous families across Punjab.
Looking Ahead: Further Investigations
As the ED continues its probe, officials have indicated that more arrests are likely as further evidence emerges. A former deputy commissioner of Jalandhar previously conducted a separate investigation into alleged misappropriation at Dr. Bansal’s Nakodar de-addiction centre, which had already uncovered numerous irregularities in operations. This lends credence to the ongoing claims that a far-reaching network of corrupt practices may have entangled various stakeholders within the drug rehabilitation industry.
Conclusion
The freezing of Rs 21 crore in bank accounts related to Dr. Amit Bansal signifies a pivotal moment in the fight against drug-related corruption in Punjab. The Punjab de-addiction scam, now under the Enforcement Directorate’s thorough investigation, carries serious implications for the state’s healthcare system and public trust in medical authorities. Continued scrutiny is essential to unravel the complexities of this case and ensure accountability, ultimately safeguarding vulnerable individuals seeking recovery from addiction in a state that desperately needs effective solutions.
Daily News
Pakistan Points Finger at India Over Waterlogging at Wagah Border
Waterlogging at the Wagah Border
AMRITSAR: A viral video showing the Wagah border’s parade area on the Pakistani side has raised concerns.

Waterlogging at the Wagah Border
AMRITSAR: A viral video showing the Wagah border’s parade area on the Pakistani side has raised concerns. The video shows Rangers standing in knee-deep water, making many uncomfortable, while the Indian side appears neat and dry. In response, Pakistan Points Finger at India, blaming the elevation of GT Road for the flooding issues. 🌧️
Pakistan has reacted by blaming India. They say that the elevation of the Grand Trunk Road on India’s side is the reason for the water problem on their side. However, the truth is a bit different.
What India Has Done
India has taken steps to prevent such issues. They have set up a rainwater harvesting system. This system helps collect rainwater and manage drainage better. Thanks to these improvements, there was no waterlogging at the Indian side during the recent rains.
Heavy Rains and Flooding
Recently, heavy rainfall hit the region on August 8 and 9. This caused severe flooding on the Pakistani side. In contrast, the Indian side managed to stay mostly dry. Only a small area near the international border gates faced some water accumulation.
Pakistan’s Efforts to Manage Water
Due to the problems caused by flooding, Pakistan has raised the elevation of GT Road on their side. They hoped this would help manage how water flows away during heavy rains.
However, even with these changes, the area near the parade was still flooded. Sandbags were piled up at various points ahead of the daily flag ceremony. This flooding is a clear sign of the struggle Pakistan faces with the ongoing rains.
What the Border Forces Say
Atul Fulzele, the Inspector General of the Border Security Force (BSF) for Punjab, stated that the heavy rain on August 8 and 9 caused the major flooding. The video likely showed conditions from that time. He reported, “There has been no waterlogging at any of the three sites of the ceremonial flag-lowering ceremonies – Attari, Hussainiwala, and Sadqi.”
However, conditions were not the same at all locations. Many border outposts (BoPs) on the Punjab Frontier were affected by flooding. Some areas had to be evacuated due to the heavy rain.
Ongoing Water Management Issues
The situation also highlights how seasonal monsoon patterns impact many regions, including Punjab. Monsoons bring a lot of rain, which can lead to both heavy flooding and water management problems.
Though both countries share the responsibility of managing water around this region, the recent events have brought some blame game. Pakistan’s elevation of their roads has not been enough to fix the issue, clearly visible from the viral video.
Conclusion
The incident at the Wagah border serves as a reminder of how serious water management can be. While Pakistan Points Finger at India, both nations need to work together to find better solutions and help each other during the challenging monsoon season.🌧️🤝
Daily News
Flood Warning in Mohali as Ghaggar River Water Levels Rise
Urgent Flood Alert for Mohali Residents
On Friday morning, the SAS Nagar administration issued a flood warning.

Urgent Flood Alert for Mohali Residents
On Friday morning, the SAS Nagar administration issued a Flood Warning in Mohali after the Ghaggar River’s water discharge crossed 70,000 cusecs at 8 AM. Local officials are concerned about the safety of nearby villages.
Villages on Alert
The warning affects nine villages in the Dera Bassi area. These villages are:
- Tiwana
- Khajoor Mandi
- Sadhanpur
- Sarsini
- Alamgir
- Dangdhera
- Mubarikpur
- Mirpur
- Bakarpur
Residents in these areas are advised to stay alert. They should prepare to move to safer locations if needed. The heavy rains in the catchment area and the opening of Sukhna Lake’s floodgates have caused the water levels to rise.
Safety Measures for Residents
The administration has given clear instructions to the people:
- Avoid going near the riverbanks.
- Move livestock to higher ground.
- Follow the updates from the control rooms.
Families should keep important documents and medicines ready. It’s also important to help the elderly and children during any evacuation process.
Further Instructions Awaited
Local officials say they will provide more instructions if the situation worsens. Residents should rely on verified sources for updates. They should not attempt to cross flooded roads, especially inundated causeways.
Contact Information
For updates, residents can contact:
- DC office control room at 0172-2219506
- Mobile: 76580-51209
- Dera Bassi office: 01762-28322
Concern Over Infrastructure
The administration has taken steps to manage the water flow from Sukhna Lake. The floodgates of Sukhna Lake have been opened several times this monsoon season. This allows excess water to flow into the Ghaggar River, upping the risk of flooding.
There have been issues with local choke points. One spot, the Mubarikpur causeway, has experienced many closures due to overflowing water. This situation shows how vulnerable Dera Bassi’s infrastructure is during heavy rainfall.
Recent Measures and Monitoring
After significant damage last year, the embankments near Tiwana have been strengthened. These improvements have helped manage the recent high water flows. However, some areas still need close monitoring for erosion. The water resources department has installed stone revetments and studs along these particular stretches this monsoon.
Conclusion
The situation remains serious for those living by the Ghaggar River. With heavy rain continuing and the risk of flooding high, the SAS Nagar administration’s warning serves as a crucial alert for local residents. Everyone should stay informed and prepared to ensure their safety. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry! 🌧️
Daily News
Wife & Sister-in-Law Steal ₹5 Lakh & Gold Ornaments in Ludhiana
Incident Overview
A man named Deepak Singh from Basant Nagar has reported a serious crime.

Incident Overview
A man named Deepak Singh from Basant Nagar has reported a serious crime. His Wife & Sister-in-Law Steal ₹5 Lakh in cash and gold jewelry from their home. This incident happened in the Daba area of Ludhiana.
Deepak Singh works at a bank. On August 25, while he was at work and their children were at school, Dimple and Mehak allegedly left the house together. A tenant nearby informed Deepak that they had seen the two women leaving with bags of household items.
Discovery of the Crime
When Deepak returned home, he found that the cash and gold were missing. This led him to approach the local police for help. The police registered a case against Dimple and Mehak under Section 305 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which deals with certain types of theft and runaway acts.
Officials at Daba police station confirmed the situation. They mentioned, “A case has been registered, and efforts are on to trace their mobile numbers to locate them.” Investigating these cases quickly is important, especially as violent crimes, including thefts and robberies, have been increasing in Punjab. This is especially true in cities like Ludhiana and Mohali, where such incidents happen more frequently.
Background of the Family
Deepak Singh married Dimple in 2013, and they have two children together. The family dynamics now seem affected by this incident. It raises questions about trust and safety within families and communities.
Related Incident: Elderly Woman Robbed
In another shocking event, an elderly woman named Rama Sharma was robbed of her gold bangles. This incident took place on Pakhowal Road while she was shopping for guavas. Rama lives in Housefed Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar. She and her husband were approached by two young men on a motorcycle who asked for directions.
While distracted, the robbers swiftly yanked the bangles off Rama’s wrists and sped away. This theft has added to the growing concern about safety in the area. The Dugri police station has filed a case against the unidentified motorcycle-borne youths.
Ongoing Investigations
Investigating officer Baljit Kumar stated that CCTV footage from the market area is being reviewed. This may help catch the robbers in Rama’s case. Videos from surveillance cameras are often key in solving crimes.
Safety and Crime in Ludhiana
Ludhiana, which is the largest city in Punjab, has a rich history of industrial growth. It is known as the heart of India’s hosiery and textile industry. However, as the city grows, so does the concern for safety. Events like these remind the public how important it is to stay vigilant.
Punjab’s cities, particularly Ludhiana and Mohali, have seen a rise in violent crimes. Many residents are worried and seek better safety measures. Efforts to improve law and order are vital for community security.
The Influence of Chandigarhs’ Cleanliness
Chandigarh, the capital of Punjab and Haryana, was rated the cleanest city in India in the 2021 Swachh Survekshan survey. Maintaining cleanliness and safety is crucial for every city. People feel more secure in clean, orderly environments. Encouraging community involvement can help fight crime and improve safety.
The Chandigarh Tricity area hosts about 1.5 million people. This large population means that communities must work together. Neighborhood watch programs can help reduce crime rates. Such initiatives encourage people to support one another.
Conclusion
As the investigation into Deepak Singh’s case, where his Wife & Sister-in-Law Steal ₹5 Lakh, and the robbery of Rama Sharma continues, it highlights the urgent need for improved safety in Ludhiana. The city’s reputation as a thriving industrial center must also include a commitment to community safety. People living in Ludhiana deserve to feel safe in their homes and neighborhoods.
With efforts from the community and law enforcement, we can hope for a safer environment for everyone. Awareness and cooperation are essential in reducing crime and creating a trusting community.
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