Fazilka | July 6, 2025
In a tragic incident that has once again highlighted Punjab’s deepening drug crisis, a 24-year-old youth from Fazilka died due to a suspected drug overdose late Sunday night. The deceased, identified as Karandeep Singh, had been struggling with substance addiction for the past several years. His family claims they were actively trying to help him recover, but the unchecked availability of drugs in the locality undermined their efforts.

According to the family, Karandeep was under treatment and was regularly being given de-addiction medicines. He had even been admitted to a rehabilitation center in the past. However, the lure of drugs — easily available in the streets, they say — eventually pulled him back into the trap.

Mother’s Anguish:
“We gave him medicines, took him to doctors, and did everything we could. But when drugs are being sold just around the corner, how can a child escape?” said the grieving mother. The family has demanded immediate and strict action against drug peddlers operating openly in the area.

Community Outrage
The incident has triggered widespread anger among locals. Residents allege that drug trafficking is rampant in the area and that even minors are being exposed to narcotics. “This is not the first case. Our youth are dying. If the government doesn’t act now, more families will be destroyed,” said a local school teacher.

Police Response
Fazilka police confirmed the death and stated that a post-mortem examination is underway to ascertain the exact cause. “We are investigating all angles. If it turns out to be an overdose, appropriate legal action will be taken,” a senior officer said.

Looming Questions for the State
Despite state-level campaigns and repeated political assurances about making Punjab drug-free, incidents like these continue to surface with alarming frequency. This death once again raises troubling questions: Are government efforts enough? Why are drugs still being sold openly in neighborhoods?