A heart-wrenching example of how Punjab’s “sixth river”—the tide of drugs—is destroying the lives of young people and their families has emerged from the town of Bhadaur. The entire locality was gripped by shock and sensation after the body of a 26-year-old youth was discovered at the cremation ground situated in the ‘Vadde Kaudiyan’ neighborhood. The deceased has been identified as Lakhvir Singh, alias Batta (son of Boota Singh). According to preliminary information, his death was allegedly caused by a drug overdose.
**Cremation Ground Becomes a Drug Den**
According to local residents, the very cremation ground—a site typically reserved for funeral rites—is being utilized by certain youths as a venue for drug consumption. Villagers state that groups of young men are frequently seen openly consuming drugs at the site. Although the police conduct periodic patrols, they have so far been unable to completely curb this illicit activity.
**Three Innocent Children Left Destitute**
Lakhvir Singh’s death has completely shattered his family. He was married and is survived by two daughters and a son. These three innocent children have now been deprived of their father’s protective presence. The deceased’s father, Boota Singh, spoke emotionally about the tragedy: “My son had been trapped in the quagmire of drug addiction for the past four years. We tried to reason with him on numerous occasions, but he was unable to break free from this addiction.”
**Police Action and Appeal**
The Bhadaur police force arrived at the scene, took custody of the body, and have initiated an investigation into the matter. In this regard, Inspector Harsimranjit Singh of the Bhadaur Police Station stated that, based on the statements provided by the family members, legal proceedings have been initiated under Section 194 of the law.
He appealed to the public, emphasizing that society must come forward to combat the menace of drugs. He urged citizens to immediately inform the police if they witness anyone selling drugs or consuming them in public spaces. The identity of any informant will be kept strictly confidential, and strict action will be taken against the perpetrators.
