Ludhiana: Punjab governor Gulab Chand Kataria has expressed serious concern over the state’s law and order situation, saying it cannot be described as “satisfactory”.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a private function in Ludhiana, Kataria said the criminal incidents reported in the state on a daily basis were a matter of concern. His remarks could trigger fresh political debate in Punjab.
Commenting on the growing gun culture, the governor said, “It seems that people here fire guns as casually as someone bursts firecrackers. Even a young child pulls out a pistol over the smallest of issues.”
He described the trend as a major challenge for society.
Drug addiction weakening the land of brave people
Responding to a question about drug abuse, Kataria said addiction was weakening a state known for its bravery.
“This is not my responsibility alone. It is the duty of all responsible members of society and all of us to work towards controlling drug abuse,” he said.
He stressed that people should not hate children who have become addicted to drugs. Instead, society must work together to help them overcome addiction.
“Hating a child who has become addicted will not solve the problem. Their parents cannot pull them out of this situation alone; the entire society must make an effort,” he said.
The governor expressed hope that if the coming generation could be protected from drugs, Punjab would be able to recover over the next eight to 10 years.
When journalists asked him about the registration of political parties and ongoing political disputes, Kataria declined to comment.
“I do not deal with the affairs of political parties. I perform the duties of the constitutional office I hold here,” he said.
