Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari on Wednesday stated that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s foremost priority is to make Punjab a drug-free province. She emphasized that protecting students from narcotics is a collective responsibility of society.
During her visit to the Punjab Anti-Narcotics Force (PANF) headquarters, Director General Brigadier Mazhar Iqbal briefed the minister on the department’s recent performance and ongoing operations aimed at curbing drug trafficking across the province. The meeting was also attended by Punjab Information Secretary Tahir Raza Hamdani and Secretary Excise and Narcotics Masood Mukhtar.
Azma Bokhari commended the force for its dedicated efforts in combating narcotics-related crimes and described their performance as commendable. She directed the authorities to initiate awareness programmes in universities and colleges to educate young people about the dangers of drug abuse.
Highlighting the importance of modern outreach strategies, the minister stressed the need for a comprehensive social media campaign to effectively spread awareness about the harmful effects of narcotics and discourage substance abuse among youth.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, a district court in Lahore has summoned Azma Bokhari to record her statement in a case concerning the alleged circulation of a fake video attributed to her on social media. The court has directed her to appear on February 24 for the next hearing.
Judicial Magistrate Naeem Wattoo issued a written order after the recent proceedings, noting that the case was scheduled at 11am on the complainant’s request. According to the order, the matter was called multiple times during the day, with all accused persons and their legal representatives present in court. Despite a heavy caseload, the hearing was repeatedly adjourned at the plaintiff’s request.
The Punjab government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening anti-narcotics operations and safeguarding the youth from the growing threat of drug abuse.
