Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini emphasized the significant influence of Khaps in society, stating that they have long been a source of values for the youth. He added that Khaps can play a key role in helping young people overcome drug addiction, a serious issue that is adversely impacting the entire society. The Chief Minister assured that whatever support Khaps need from him or the government to combat drug addiction would be provided.
Nayab Singh Saini was addressing Khap representatives from Haryana at the Public Works Department (PWD) Rest House in Jind after flagging off the Cyclothon Yatra.
The Chief Minister urged the Khap representatives to launch a campaign to keep youth away from drugs and support the goal of making Haryana drug-free. He stated that while the Cyclothon Yatra was part of a broader awareness effort, its primary objective was to eliminate drug abuse. “We must save our youth from the harmful effects of drug addiction,” said the Chief Minister. “It is crucial to engage as many young people as possible in sports, enabling them to bring home maximum medals and make Haryana proud, both nationally and internationally.”
The Khap representatives expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister for inviting them and giving them respect and honour. They also praised his humble and cheerful nature. The khap representative shared their views on various social issues, with the Chief Minister attentively listening and assuring necessary action on all matters. The discussions also covered various demands from Gram Panchayats, including a request to open registration on the Meri Fasal Mera Byora portal.
Present on this occasion were Deputy Speaker of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha Dr. Krishan Lal Middha, MLA Sh Ramkumar Gautam, and other Khap representatives.
Chief Minister Flags Off ‘Drug-Free Haryana Cyclothon 2.0’ from Jind
The fight against drugs must be made successful with collective efforts from all sections of society
Our goal is a drug-free, healthy, and empowered Haryana – Chief Minister
This cycle rally is a symbol of our collective resolve to fight against drugs, spread awareness, and eliminate addiction from society – Nayab Singh Saini
Youth must show courage to say ‘No’ to drugs, urges Chief Minister
Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini flagged off the state-level ‘Drug-Free Haryana Cyclothon 2.0’ from Jind under the pledge of a drug-free Haryana on Friday. On this occasion, the Chief Minister said that the fight against drugs must be won through the united efforts of khap panchayats, youth, women, teachers, and all sections of society. Our aim is to build a drug-free, healthy, and empowered Haryana. This cycle rally represents the commitment to fight against drugs, raise awareness, and eliminate addiction through unity, he added.
Nayab Singh Saini said that khap panchayats have been an integral part of Haryana’s social fabric since ancient times. The region’s democratic traditions have long thrived through khap and sarv-khap panchayats. History is witness to the role these panchayats have played in resisting foreign forces and making significant decisions, he said.
The Chief Minister said that today, as we battle the social evil of drug addiction, their active participation in this cyclothon proves that khaps are not only guardians of tradition but also pioneers of social change. In the past too, they’ve sent a clear message, those who promote drug use will face a social boycott, and those who quit drugs will be welcomed. Their support for this movement ensures that Haryana will become drug-free, he said.
Nayab Singh Saini further said that the cyclothon, which began in Hisar on April 5, has reached Jind after passing through various districts. Today, it will proceed to Barwala and will conclude in Sirsa on April 27 via Fatehabad, he said.
Anti-drug campaign will also help curb terrorism
Nayab Singh Saini said that drug trafficking has become a major challenge for all of humanity. The money earned from this illegal trade fuels terrorism across the world, he said.
The Chief Minister said that the recent incident in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, where 26 people were killed by terrorists who were also funded through drug smuggling. Hence, this anti-drug campaign will indirectly help curb terrorism too, he said.
He emphasized that this cyclothon is not just a cycle rally but a mass movement, a public awakening. Our youth, khap panchayats, elders, and mothers are united in spreading the message: ‘Quit drugs, embrace life’. This unity will certainly bring about change, said the Chief Minister.
The Chief Minister further said that a similar rally was conducted in 2023, lasting 25 days, during which 1,77,200 cyclists and 5,25,800 other participants joined. In light of that success, Cyclothon 2.0 is now being held.
Youth must show the courage to say no to drugs, urges CM
Addressing the youth, the Chief Minister urged them to show courage by saying no to drugs in their lives. If you see someone trapped in addiction, don’t isolate them. support them and help them get back on the right path. Social change begins at home, so let us all take the first step from our homes, he said.
The Chief Minister further stressed that the need for awareness campaigns in schools and urged panchayats, municipal corporations, and local bodies to prioritize this issue and most importantly, for everyone to lead by example.
He assured that the government stands with every individual who wishes to come out of addiction and will uproot the very foundations that spread it.
Nayab Singh Saini called upon every parent, teacher, and social organization in the state to join this fight against drugs. Talk to your children, help them understand, don’t scare them, don’t shame them. Embrace them with care. Drug addiction is not just one person’s problem, rather it is a challenge for the whole society, said the Chief Minister.
The government is working with full commitment to curb drug abuse
The Chief Minister said that the government is fully committed to curbing drug abuse. We have made strict laws to crack down on drug trafficking. Agencies have been empowered to dismantle inter-state and international networks. Special vigilance is being maintained in border areas. But more powerful than the law is a people’s movement and this cyclothon is part of that public movement. When people themselves become aware and spread awareness, real change happens, he said.
While boosting the morale of the youth, he said, you are strengthening the foundation of our future. With every pedal, you are lighting a flame against drugs. This journey will reach every village and town, delivering a message to children, youth, farmers, women, and every section of society: ‘A drug-free Haryana – our dream, our resolve, said the Chief Minister.
The Chief Minister said that Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi has envisioned a ‘Swachh Bharat – Swasth Bharat (Clean and Healthy India)’. To achieve all these goals, a ‘Drug-Free India’ is essential.
Cabinet Minister Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi, Deputy Speaker Vidhan Sabha, Sh. Krishan Lal Middha, MLAs Sh. Ramkumar Gautam and Sh. Devender Attri and representatives from various khap panchayats also remained present on this occasion.
DCs, SPs directed to maintain strict vigilance following Pahalgam incident
Haryana Chief Secretary Sh. Anurag Rastogi on Friday reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to maintaining peace, harmony, and brotherhood across the state. Chairing a video conference with all Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police, he emphasized that upholding law and order remains a top priority, especially in light of the recent incident in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
He directed district officials to keep a hawk’s eye on anti-social elements and to take prompt action against anyone attempting to disrupt public order or social unity.
During the meeting, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Dr. Sumita Misra issued a series of instructions aimed at strengthening the security apparatus. She called upon district administrations to intensify patrolling, enhance local intelligence-gathering mechanisms, and maintain constant surveillance on potentially sensitive areas.
Dr. Misra particularly emphasized the importance of monitoring social media platforms. She instructed officials to take strict legal action against individuals spreading misinformation or attempting to vitiate the communal atmosphere online. “Any attempt to disturb social harmony will be dealt with a firm hand,” she asserted.
Protection for Kashmiri Students in Haryana
In light of recent developments, Dr. Misra also directed all district officials to ensure full security and support for Kashmiri students studying in universities and colleges across Haryana. She urged district administrations to remain in close contact with educational institutions to address any concerns and provide a sense of safety and reassurance to the students.
The ACS (Home) also directed that regular law and order assessments be conducted and contingency plans be kept ready to respond swiftly to any emerging situation.
Activate Peace Committees: DGP
Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapur also addressed the meeting and instructed all district police heads to identify vulnerable areas and keep a close watch on them. He emphasized the need to reactivate peace committees at the district level to foster mutual understanding and maintain communal harmony. “These committees play a crucial role in promoting dialogue between communities and can act as a bridge to defuse tension during sensitive times,” Kapur noted.
ADGP, CID, Sh. Saurabh Singh, Secretary, Home Department, Geeta Bharti and senior officers of various departments were present on the occasion.
